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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS

KNOWN TO OCCUR IN THE STATE.

CHARLES B. CORY.

Curator of the Department of Ornithology in the Field Columbian Museum, Chicago; Fellow of the
Linnean and Zodlogical Societies of London ; Member of the American Ornithologists’
Union ; of the British Ornithologists’ Union; Honorary Member of the
California Academy of Sciences, etc., etc.

AUTHOR OF

“THE BEAUTIFUL AND CURIOUS BIRDS OF THE WORLD,” ‘THE BIRDS
OF THE BAHAMA ISLANDs,” ‘THE BrirRDS OF HAITI AND SAN
DomINnGo,” “THE BIRDS OF THE WEST INDIES,” “A NATU-

RALIST IN THE MAGDALEN ISLANDS,”’ etc., etc.

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the & FOR SALE BY
facie ESTES & LAURIAT,
BOSTON, MASS.

1896.

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a THE BARTA PRESS,
BOSTON.

TO MY WIFE,

WHO HAS OFTEN SHARED WITH ME THE PLEASURES
AND TRIALS OF CAMP LIFE, THIS

BOOK IS DEDICATED.

PREFACE.

Mucu of the matter contained in the following pages was written
in the field and covers a period of some ten winters in Florida, a
great deal of the time being passed in out-of-the-way localities while
studying the fauna of the State. The illustrations are, with few
exceptions, from photographs taken by myself; the principal ex-
ceptions being the photographs of the tarpon, which were obtained
through the kindness of Mr. George Mixter, of Boston. The picture
of the manatee and the illustrations in the ** Key to the Water Birds”
are the work of Mr. Edward Knobel, of Boston.

_ The nomenclature and classification used in the Key is that
adopted by the American Ornithologists’ Union.

I have aimed to make the ‘‘ Key to the Water Birds” one
which would enable a person unfamiliar with birds to identify any
Florida species without difficulty. Before using the key the reader
should carefully read the ‘* Introduction to the Key” and make him-
self familiar with the terms used in describing birds; the general
rules for measurements, etc.

With few exceptions, the species given have been taken or ob-
served by myself during my various trips to Florida, but several are
included on the authority of others, and I have freely availed myself
of information obtained from the following works and papers : —

‘¢ History of North American Birds,” by Baird, Brewer, and
Ridgway: ‘‘ Manual of North American Birds,” by Robert Ridg-
way; ‘‘ Key to North American Birds,” by Elliot Coues; ‘* Birds of
Eastern North America,” by C. J. Maynard; ‘‘ Handbook of the Birds
of Eastern North America,” by F. M. Chapman; ‘* Notes on the
Birds of the Caloosahatchee Region of Florida,” by W. E. D. Scott
(Auk Vol. IX., pp. 209-218).

4 PREFACE.

‘On the Mammals and Winter Birds of East Florida,” by J. A.
Allen (Bull. Mus. Comp. Zool., IT., 1871, pp. 168-185 ); «* Catalogue
of the Mammals of Florida,” by C. J. Maynard (Bull. Essex Inst.,
IV., 1872, pp. 135-148) ; ‘* The Mammals of Florida,” by C. J. May-
nard (Quart. Journ. Bost. Zool. Society, II., 1883, pp. 1-8, 17-24,
38-43, 49, 50); ‘* Contributions to the Mammalogy of Florida,” by
Samuel N. Rhoads (Proc. Acad. Nat. Science, Philadelphia, 1894,
pp- 152-160) ; ‘* A Monograph of the Bats of North America,” by
Harrison Allen, 1893; ‘*‘ Remarks on Certain Land Mammals from
Florida, with a List of the Species Known to Occur in the State,”
by Frank M. Chapman (Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., VI., 1894, pp.
333-346) ; ** Kurse Notizen uber die hohere Fauna Floridas,” von
Dr. Einar Lonnberg, Upsala, Sweden, 1894.

I have also consulted the following works relating to the Florida
Indians: ‘* The Seminole Indians of Florida,” by Clay MacCauley,
and ‘* Archives of Aboriginal Knowledge,” by H. R. Schoolcraft.

CHARLES B. CORY. |

MP Ce,
ETON sh ed
THE SEMINOLE INDIANS,

Manners and Customs

_ Green Corn Dance

~ Method of Hunting
- Location of Villages
_ Seminole History .

Vocabulary . .
RIDA PANTHER. .

GATORS AND CROCODILES.
7 Alligators...

Crocodiles. . .
=e
DREPHING 6 6. os

GROUNDS OF FLORIDA
MMALS OF FLORIDA .

Measurements .
AlOSBATY ee

Clothing and Ornaments

CONTENTS.

S ON SOME OF THE FLORIDA SNAKES .
THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA .
Introduction to Bird Key

PAGE

109 _
124
133
135
136
138

. . . . . . .

. . . 3 . .
. . . . .
. . . .

. . . . . .

. . i. . . . .
~

LEAP OF THE TARPON .

LE, WITH Trip, Doc, AND TIGER

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WILD CAT CLIMBING A TREE. . .
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FACCOOM hee ha a a ay A Pome
AN UNFAIR FIGHT... eet ats
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A Great Day For KINGFISH . .
THORNTON’s CAMP, HILLSBORO RIVER
VRE OLD PUMP alg) et nee
_ Tue EDGE oF THE EVERGLADES Leas
A SAND Hitt CRANE’s NEST . . .
DEAD SHARK, NEW RIVER INLET . .
THE MIAMI RIVER RAPIDS... .-
CAVETA MT IRE VEREC oh icbo nero oe ont, Se eapta ate
RATTLESNAKE ABOUT TO STRIKE . .
RATTLESNAKE PREPARING TO STRIKE
WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. . . . -

INTRODUCTION.

; _ My first hunting experience in Florida dates back to the year
1877, and I have since spent ten winters in the State, much of the
time being devoted to exploring out-of-the-way nooks and corners
which were then visited by but few people, and it was a journey of
several days to places which, since the advent of railroads, may now
_be reached in as many hours. Lake Okeechobee is now no longer
- difficult of access and many people visit it every year from Kissimmee
-and Fort Myers. From Jacksonville to the Indian River, which but
_a few years ago was a three days’ journey, may now be done by rail
a few hours. Although Florida is now annually visited by
1ousands instead of hundreds of people, as was the case a few
years ago, there is still a vast extent of country which is practically
a wilderness and where game is yet to be found in great abundance ;
and the magnificent winter climate of Florida adds much to the en-
_joyment of the hunter or fisherman.

_ Many there are who look with disfavor upon him who with
ifle and hound wanders into the wilderness to hunt and kill wild
animals. To such an one I would say, ‘* Chacque un a son gouté.”
eit he be a man, with a man’s health and strength, his hand steady
_and his eye clear, let him go with me and camp for a week on the
bank of some unnamed lake in the Florida wilderness, where the
panther, bear, and deer wander undisturbed. Let him breathe
the fresh morning air full of the smell of the pines, and listen to the
chorus of the hounds as they dash away in full cry on the hot trail
of something that can fight as well as run. I warrant you his pulse
will quicken as he forces his way into some thicket where the dogs
hold a bear or a panther at bay. Perhaps many of us have a trace of
the savage left in us yet, but I believe the boy who loves the woods
will gain much in health and manhood; and it is pleasant to think

8 INTRODUCTION.

that when we are gone those that come after us may wander where
we have wandered, may camp where we’have camped, and use the
gun or the rod as well or better than we have used it, knowing that
they will go back to their fellows and the cares of life better in mind
and body for the experience.

As Isaac Walton tells us, it was one of the qualifications that
Xenophon bestowed on Cyrus, ‘‘ that he was a hunter of wild beasts,”
and the love of the chase seems to be as strong with many of us
now as then. As we grow older, however, most of us lose some-
thing of our desire to kill game. Our love for the woods seems to
increase rather than diminish and we see many new and beautiful
things in the wilderness which we did not see when we were younger ;
but we shrink from killing a bird or mammal unless we actually need
it for food or study.

Many a flock of quail or ducks I have watched feeding without
disturbing them, and many a deer I have stalked, and perhaps photo-
graphed, and then watched it from my concealment until, discover-
ing my presence, it bounded away unharmed. It-should be a rule
with every true sportsman never to kill more game than can be
properly used. Of course, with a number of men in camp, what
appears to be a large bag is often not more than is actually needed
for food. On several occasions I have made large bags when some
of the men in camp were going to spend a holiday with their families
and wished to take home some birds; but the wanton and useless
slaughter of game cannot be too strongly condemned.

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS.

MANNERS AND CUSTOMS.

_Amone the Seminole Indians in i sae exist certain tribal organi-
zations or clans known as ‘‘ gens,” which comprise families and
their unmarried relatives. In the old days these gens were well
nown; but at the present time many of them have either become
extinct or their members are so few and scattered that they are no
longer recognized.

_ These gens were known under various names, such as Tiger, pts
Bear, Wind, and many others, the members of the same ‘‘ gen” not
being allowed to intermarry.

A Seminole Indian rarely kills more game than he can use; if he
does not need the meat, he either sells it or cures it for future use,
the venison being cut into strips which are smoked slightly over the
camp fire and afterwards dried by the sun.

An Indian camp fire will burn for a long time and consume
‘comparatively little wood. A number of logs are arranged in a
circle with their ends together, somewhat resembling the spokes of a
wheel; the fire is lighted in the center where the ends meet, and
when the fire is no longer needed the logs are drawn apart and it
_ immediately dies down; but the charred ends may easily be ignited
_ again when required.

This fire is an admirable one for camp cooking, as it is compara-
tively small and easily regulated.

The camp fire is rarely allowed to go out, a pot of sofkee or
stewed meat generally being kept warm, especially in a camp where
_ there are many children.

_ **Sofkee” isa kind of soup made from ground corn or hominy and
corn mixed. It is eaten with large wooden spoons which the Indians
manufacture and which are called sofkee spoons. These they hand

Io HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

from one to the other as they sit about the pot, each drinking a ladleful
before passing it on to the next. Another favorite food is called
‘¢kumpty ” or ** coontie.” The ‘* coontie ” flour is made from the root

SEMINOLE CAMP FIRE.

of a plant which grows in the dry, sandy lands of South Florida and is
very plentiful in some localities. The root of the plant alone is used.
This is first carefully peeled and washed, after which it is thrown into a

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THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. II

large wooden vessel or trough, where it is ground and pounded into
a powder; this powder is then carefully washed, and after repeated
washing becomes very white and clean. If

wet it assumes a pale pinkish color, but if
thoroughly cleansed it remains perfectly
white. This is called ‘* coontie” by the
Indians, and is prepared much in the same manner as we use
cornstarch or arrowroot. It is sometimes mixed with wheat flour
and made into cakes, which when fried are very palatable. The
seeds of the kumpty plant are contained in a cone having the
general appearance of a pine cone about to sprout. They resem-
ble kernels of corn, but are larger and flatter and of an orange-red
color.

The Indian does little in the way of farming. He clears small
hummocks and plants corn, pumpkins, sweet potatoes, and some-
times raises a little maize; in some of the camps he has bananas
growing and a few orange or lemon trees, but, as a rule, he raises
barely enough to supply himself and family a part of the year.

I have been unable to learn anything definite of the Indian laws
regarding punishment of crime. That they do have such laws is
known. Years ago Old Charlie was condemned to have the upper
portion of his ears cut off and was banished for one year from the
tribe under penalty of death if he returned. He is one of the nicest
old Indians of the lot, but lost his ears for ‘* talking too much,” as
the Indians say.

Upon the death of an Indian the body is clothed in a new shirt,
and usually a handkerchief is tied around the neck and a new turban
put about the head. Sometimes the face is painted, usually with a
round spot on each cheek. A piece of burnt wood is placed in the
left hand and a bow and one arrow is usually buried with him.
When the place for burial is selected the ground is prepared in the
following manner: A floor of palmetto logs is built some seven feet
long by three feet wide, over which a roof of palmetto leaves is con-
structed. The body is placed in this small house, the feet, it is

THE SOFKEE-SPOON.

12 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

claimed, being always placed toward the East. The body is usually
wrapped in a blanket and covered with logs, forming a kind of box
with the palmetto leaf roof over it. <A fire is built at the end of the
tomb, which is renewed
at sunset for three days,
and lighted torches waved
about for a few moments
to frighten away the
‘*bad birds.” After the
third day the fires are
allowed to go out.

In talking with Old
Charlie and _ Osceola
about the mounds which
are so common in Flor-
ida, I asked who made
them, and they answered,
‘¢Injuns all dead. One
old chief tell me long time
go, Injuns came in canoe,
eat oysters, play ball.”

Old Charlie said the

Indians were not Semi-

noles.

Most of the Indians
have but one wife, but
two at least, Old Charlie
and Old Doctor, have
two. I have been told
that Old Doctor was pre-
sented with a second wife by his tribe, in recognition of his ser-
vices to his brother Indians in killing a negro half-breed named
Key-West Billy.

This half-breed came back to his tribe and demanded in marriage
one of the Indian girls. It is claimed that, upon being refused, he

BARFOTARTSO. ‘* OLD CHARLIE.’’

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 13

immediately shot several persons, including a woman. This was
objected to by Old Doctor, who happened to be present, and he in
turn shot Billy, killing him instantly.

Indians rarely talk much and do not like to answer questions. It

GART-SUM-E-TEL-E-KEE. ROBERT OSCEOLA.

is only after being for some time in their company and gaining their
confidence that they will talk freely about anything connected with
themselves.

The Indians tan the skins of the animals which they kill by

14 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

carefully scraping them and working them in their hands until they
become soft and pliable. They also use the brains of the animal for
softening and curing the skin.

The leggings which they wear are sometimes dyed a very rich
mahogany brown by soaking the skin in an infusion of mangrove
bark. The bark is boiled for several hours; the skin is then im-
mersed in the liquid for half an hour. It is then taken out and dried
in the sun until it is merely moist, although it will not do to let it get
entirely dry. It is then immersed a second time for about half an
hour, and upon being taken out and dried it is ready for use.

The brain-tanned skin, which has not been dyed, becomes very
hard and stiff when wet unless it is continually worked over and kept
soft by manipulation, but skins which have been prepared by tan-
ning with mangrove bark are very little affected by rain, and make
very pretty leggings and moccasins.

It is rare that the Seminoles ornament their moccasins with beads,
and I have seen but two pairs of moccasins made in this manner ;
one I procured from Old Doctor, who brought them into Lantana
just as I was coming out from a hunting expedition. The old man
was anxious to dispose of them to get money to buy whisky. They
were neatly ornamented with lines of beads.

Old Doctor was one of the Indians that took part in the last war.
He is still hale and hearty and does not like a white man any better
than he ever did.

I have asked a number of Indians regarding their antidote for
snake poison, and have been told by two or three different ones with
whom I was well acquainted that they had no antidote for the bite of
the rattlesnake. Both Osceola and Old Charlie had no reason for
deceiving me, as they told me many things about their manners and
customs, and often evinced their good feelings toward me by making
me presents of sweet potatoes, eggs, and venison.

Osceola’s wife was once bitten by a moccasin, and I am told that the
wound did not heal for nearly a year, and at times she was troubled
with fever, which may or may not have been the result of the bite.

At many of the camps the Indians now keep hens and pigs. In

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 15

moving from one camp to another they take the pigs about with
them.

One or two of the Indians have an old wagon and some very
diminutive horses. Osceola has two perfectly white horses, strong,
hardy little animals, which draw about an old wagon when he moves
from place to place. Usually, the squaws and pappooses ride in the
wagon, while the men walk, and the pigs are tied underneath or else
led by a squaw.

It was at one time customary for hunting parties to wander some
distance to the north and to the south of their present settlements, and

MOVING CAMP.

the remains of old Indian camps may be found to the extreme south-
east point of Florida; but none were observed on the southwest por-
tion of the State below White Water Bay.

The costume of an Indian in camp usually consists of a cotton

16 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

shirt. The women wear a cotton dress embroidered with many
pieces of colored calico. The young children run about naked until
they arrive at the age of eight or ten years, when they are given a
cotton shirt. Sometimes the small children wear some sort of
covering during the cold weather.

The Indians visit each other a great deal. Many of those living
on New River go to the Big Cypress every year, usually to attend
the Green Corn Dance and visit their relatives.

GREEN CORN DANCE.

Tue annual festival known as the Green Corn Dance is still ob-
served by the Indians, but it is not conducted with the same cere-
mony as in bygone years.

In the old days the Green Corn Dance or ‘* Busk” was an occa-
sion of great importance with the Creek tribe. It then occupied
seven or eight days, but is now reduced to four or at most five days.

It takes place during the second week in June or during the ‘* little
moon in June,” as the Indians say.

It is very difficult to obtain from the Indians a description of this
dance. From time to time they would answer a few questions, but
if pressed for information they immediately become reticent. The
dance usually lasts four days, according to the statement of most of
the Indians, although some claim that it is decided by the medi-
cine man whether it shall last four or five days. Two weeks
previous to the day of the dance notice is sent by Indian messengers
to the different clans and villages stating the date of the ceremony.
They keep account of the days which intervene by hanging up a
number of small sticks representing the days, and one is taken down
each day. When the last one is thrown away they repair to the
point selected for the feast.

On the evening of the first day the ceremony of taking the ‘* black
drink” occurs. It is believed that unless one drinks of this he will
be ‘*‘ sick” after eating the green corn. It is not as carefully carried
out as in the old days, and I do not understand that the fire is now

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 17

_ lighted by rubbing two sticks together. At the present time the fire
is started by the medicine man, and the squaws are not allowed

_ to come near the fire, which is still reserved, as in ancient days,
for the warriors who drink the black drink.

In building this fire they place the sticks pointed to the four points
of the compass, and, in fact, the Indians at all times arrange their
logs by placing all the ends together, somewhat resembling the

_ spokes of a wheel, which is probably a traditional method of build-
ing a fire, possibly originated by the ceremony of the Green Corn
Dance or Busk.

The Indian women attach strings of turtle shells filled with peb-
bles (seven on each string) to their legs. While the dancing goes
on the women stamp about, rattling these shells, keeping time with
the dancers.

I have never seen a white man who has attended a Green Corn
Dance, but I have been told there are several who have done so,

although it is claimed they have not been allowed to remain during
the entire celebration. The dance usually lasts from four to five
days. The first day they do a great deal of dancing, which is car-
ried on far into the night. When one Indian becomes tired another
takes his place, and sometimes a half a dozen or more dance together.
After this the dancing is intermittent. The second day the young
men go out and bring in game for the feast; the third and fourth
days are spent in feasting and drinking. This is the official pro-
gram, but I am afraid the affair is not always conducted according
to established custom, as nowadays the white man’s whisky plays an
important part in the celebration. This is totally at variance with
the ancient custom as practised by the Indians a century ago, when
the dancing and jollity did not commence until the fourth day.

In those days things were decidedly different and the affair was
conducted with great ceremony. All offenses were forgiven on the
occasion of this festival, which took place early in August instead
of June, as it does now (perhaps on account of the country inhabited
by the tribe being so much farther north and the corn ripening
later). On the morning of the first day the medicine man, dressed

18 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

with white leather moccasins and leggings and a white deerskin
on his shoulders, went at daybreak to the center of the village and
started a fire, which he did only after considerable difficulty, by
rubbing two dry sticks together. Four young men then approached
from the four corners of the square, each carrying an oak log.
They advanced towards the fire with great ceremony, and deposited
their logs end to end, pointed to the four points of the compass.
After these logs had become well ignited four other young men
came forward, each carrying an ear of new corn, which the medi-
cine man took from them and placed upon the fire, where they were
consumed. Then four other young men approached carrying a
quantity of the ‘‘ cassina” plant, from which the black drink is
manufactured. Some of the leaves were placed on the fire and
consumed, after which the remainder was immediately dried and
cooked for use.

The warriors and other males of the tribe having assembled, they
proceeded to drink the black drink in the usual manner. During
the first day’s ceremony no women were allowed to approach the
fire, and it is a question whether they were allowed admittance on
the second or third days. The third day was spent by the young
men in hunting and fishing. On the fourth day the whole town
assembled, including men, women, and children, and the game
killed on the previous day was cooked and served for a great feast,
and the day was spent in eating, drinking, and dancing. Large
pots of sofkee were placed about and a wooden spoon was constantly
at its side so that any one wishing to partake of it could do so.
The method of making sofkee in the old days was to boil a quantity of
pounded corn until it formed a soup of the consistency of rather thin
gruel; to this was added a small quantity of lees made from ashes of
hickory wood. The soup thus made kept for several days in coy-
ered pots. At the present time sofkee is made of boiled corn
and hominy, without the addition of the lees made from hickory
wood. The Indians squat about the kettle, each one drinking
a spoonful of the mixture in turn, using the same large wooden
spoon.

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 19

The ‘* black drink” was made from a shrub found in Georgia,
and Carolina, and Northern Florida, which is called casszna.
The leaves were collected and boiled over a fire ; they were then
poured from one pan to another until fermentation took place,
when it was considered ready for use. In ancient times it was a
custom of the Indians during this celebration to seat themselves in a
circle around the fire, and three young men handed gourds full of
the black drink to three of the greatest chiefs present. The young
men then stepped back a few paces and uttered what was known as
the black drink cry, first exclaiming loudly the word ‘‘choh.” At
this signal the three chiefs’ drank from the huge gourds, the young
men uttering the wailing note, and the chiefs drank until the note
ended. The gourds were then taken from the mouths of the war-
iors and the young men handed them to the chiefs next in rank,
pronouncing the word ‘‘ choh,” but the cry of the black drink was
not uttered, as none were entitled to this distinction except those
highest in power. After drinking the concoction the warriors dis-
_ gorged it, and we are told that it was considered praiseworthy to be
able to do this gracefully.

_ The Indians are warned by their medicine men not to eat corn
until after the celebration of the Green Corn Dance.

William Freeman, of Little River, who has lived near the Indians
for many years, told me how, on one occasion, Dr. Tiger was at his
house when he had green corn for dinner ; it was some weeks before
the Green Corn Dance was to take place, and Dr. Tiger looked
wistfully at the corn and asked, ‘‘ You eat green corn now?” Free-
man answered, ‘‘ Me like corn plenty now.”

Tiger went on with his meal, but did not eat any corn, although
he seemed troubled about something. At last he told Freeman that
the Indians were warned by their medicine men not to eat green corn
before the annual celebration, as it would make them ill; ‘* Make
Indian sick,” as he expressed it.

It seems, according to Tiger’s statement, that some of the squaws
and children have eaten green corn before the dance, but the men
never eat it.

20 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

I am not certain that this is true, as I have been told by other
Indians that they ate corn whenever it was ripe. I have asked many
Indians about this, but they dislike being questioned regarding their
customs, and one is never sure that they are telling the truth in such
matters.

Freeman was under the impression that Dr. Tiger might take a
nibble somewhat earlier than his comrades in future.

The new year commenced with the Creeks after the celebration of
the green corn dance, or, at least, this was a custom when they
inhabited Alabama and Georgia, as August was considered the first
month of the year. At present it is doubtful if they have made any
change in their yearly calendar, although the green corn dance
takes place earlier. They divide their year into two seasons,
summer and winter, and they then divide these into moons as
follows : —

August. . Heyothlucco. . . Big Ripening Moon.

September. Otauwooskochee . Little Chestnut Moon.

October . Otauwooskolucco . Big Chestnut Moon.

November . Heewoolee . . . Falling Leaf Moon.

December . Thlaffolucco . . . Big Winter Moon.

January . Thlaffochosee . . Little Winter Moon, alias Big
Winter Moon’s young brother.

February . MHootahlahassee . . Windy Moon.

March . . Tausautchoosee . . Little Spring Moon.

April . . Tausautcheelucco . Big Spring Moon.

May . "< Kéehassee °° <.. “Miulberry figon.

June . ..Kochohassee. . . Blackberry Moon.

July . . Hoyeuchee . . . Little Ripening Moon.

CLOTHING AND ORNAMENTS.

THE costume of a Seminole Indian usually consists of a turban, a
breech cloth, a calico shirt, and a neckerchief. This is the usual
costume worn by them when in their own camp and among their
own people ; but when they visit the white man’s town they add two

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 21

or three cravats and sometimes pantaloons as well, but as a rule
they cover their legs with deerskin leggings of their own manu-
facture. They also wear a watch chain and numerous safety pins
fastened to their shirts, but I have never yet seen one carry a watch.
Their turban is made of a woolen shawl, sometimes covered with a
piece of calico and even silk when they wish to be particularly gor-
geous in their attire.
On one occasion I
saw an Indian by
the name of Billy
Bowlegs wearing a
turban encircled by
a band of metal
(probably tin). The
older Indians usu-
ally wear a red
woolen turban made
by winding a shawl
around their heads,
which they fasten
by tucking the ends
skilfully away be-
neath the folds with-
out the use of pins.
As a rule they do
not wear a turban
when hunting.
They sometimes
wear moccasins in
camp, and they al-

JACK CHARLIE,

ways wear them when visiting a whiteman’stown. They rarely wear
any of the white man’s clothing in their own camps, as the older
Indians are prejudiced.against having any of the younger ones asso-
ciate with white people or adopt their customs.

The costume of the women consists of a cotton or calico skirt and

22 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

BILLY BOWLEGS.

waist. The waist merely reaches below the
breast, leaving a portion of the stomach bare.
In most cases these dresses are more or less
ornamented by sewing on pieces of calico of
different colors. The women do not wear
moccasins. Young girls, up to the age of
eight or nine years, wear only a skirt, being
nude above the waist, while the boys wear a
shirt only. Younger children go about naked
in the camps, but at the present time they
often put on little cotton shirts, if they happen
to be in the vicinity of the white settlements.

As soon as they get into camp, however, off come the clothes and

the youngsters run about in a state of nature.

Many of the men

shave their heads, leaving only a scalp-lock and a little bang of hair

on the forehead, but
this custom
always followed by
the younger In-

is not

dians.

The women wear
great quantities of
beads which they
hang in strings
about their necks,
and the weight of
these must be very
great. The women
also. wear round
pieces of silver
made from dimes
and quarters ham-
mered very thin.
These they fasten
to the breast of

INDIAN CHILDREN.

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 23

their dress. They also wear half dollars and dollars hung in the
same manner, but those are not hammered. Occasionally, though
rarely, they make very thin large discs of hammered silver, which
are worn by the women over the breasts, one on each side. The
men do not paint their faces, but occasionally wear ornaments when

sip
4

Visiting a white man’s camp or going to a town on a trading expedi-
tion. Iam told they sometimes paint their faces during the cere-
mony of the Green Corn Dance, but was unable to get any definite
information on this subject. Sometimes the men wear bracelets of
silver, but it is not a very common custom, as I have never seen but

24 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

one Indian adorned in this manner. It is probable that most of
their ornaments are kept in safe places to be used only on ‘state
occasions.”

METHODS OF HUNTING.

Durineé the spring the manatees enter the rivers to feed on the
‘¢manatee” grass, and, as some writers claim, the leaves of the
mangrove trees. They are abundant in the bays and rivers all along

(Drawn by Edward Knobel.)

MANATEE.

the west and east coasts of Southern Florida. At one time the St.
Lucie River was a noted place for them. In New River the man-
atee is still common, and they are numerous at times in the lower
part of Biscayne Bay and on the west coast south of Charlotte
Harbor. They live equally in salt or fresh water, and while with
the Indians on one of their manatee hunts I have seen half a dozen
rising to the surface of the ocean at one time, over a quarter of a
mile from shore.

Many of these animals are killed by the Indians every year.
They hunt them in canoes, sometimes in the rivers, and again in
the ocean, but usually near the mouth of some river.

These animals come to the surface every few minutes to breathe,
and their heads may be seen as they appear for a moment above the
surface of the water,

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 25

I have often accompanied Osceola and other Indians on a manatee
hunt of this kind. They harpoon them as they rise to the surface,
7 “using a steel point barbed on one side, attached to the end of a long
_ pole. To the steel point is fastened a strong cord, which in turn is
_ attached to a float. Upon being struck the manatee sinks at once,
_ but the direction in which he moves is indicated by the float. The

AFTER MANATEE,

Indians follow the float as closely as possible and watch for him to
rise to the surface, when they shoot him through the head, and the
huge animal is then towed to the shore. It requires considerable
skill as well as strength to drive the harpoon through the thick,
tough hide. Many of these animals grow to a very large size, and
it is claimed that some of them have been taken which exceeded
twelve feet in length. )

One day, while talking with Old Charlie and his squaw at his
camp on the north bank of New River, he drew my attention to a
long brown object which was moving slowly up the stream a few

26 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

inches beneath the surface of the water. It was about twenty
feet from the bank, and Old Charlie whispered to me that it
was a manatee. Getting into my canoe I paddled gently after him,
but as I did so an exclamation from Old Charlie caused me
to turn, and there, just below me, was another manatee larger
than the first. I whispered to Pat to keep the boat as still as
possible, and in another moment the huge creature passed di-
rectly under us, not two feet beneath the surface, and so clear was
the water that. the coarse hairs on his brown skin were distinctly

visible. He appeared to be at least ten feet long, and, although
I wanted that particular manatee very much, as I had no harpoon
in the boat, I could only sit and watch him slowly move up the
river, where he undoubtedly joined his companion who had preceded
him. |

The Indians are very fond of the flesh of this animal, which
somewhat resembles coarse beef, and what they do not use them-
selves they readily sell to the white settlers.

The manatee is a very timid creature, and the least sound, such

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. | 24

as an oar striking against the side of the boat will cause him to
sink and swim away at once.
_ The Indians kill a great many alligators for the purpose of sell-
- ing their skins to traders. As a rule, they ‘ fire-hunt” them at
night. The alligator lying with his eyes
out of the water does not appear to be ON ecu cneeay %
afraid of the light which is reflected in
his eye, having the appearance of a HARPOON.
brilliant candle flame, and may be seen ,
_ from a considerable distance. The Indian paddling in his canoe
_ approaches within a few feet of the animal and easily shoots
him through the head, after which he is speared and towed to the
_ shore. G
Of late years alligators have become comparatively scarce and it
no longer pays professional hunters to kill them as a business,
although they are still numerous in many places in the interior.
Indians, as a rule, do not like to hunt far from their canoes or
ponies, although they are good walkers, and, if occasion requires,
_ will cover long distances on foot.
The Indians are very fond of bear meat and extract an oil from
the fat which they prize highly. Whenever a bear is discovered a
_ hunting party is immediately organized and the animal is tracked
to his hiding place, surrounded and killed.
When deer hunting the Indians divide into small parties, two or
three bucks hunting together, taking with them their squaws and
children. They select a part of the country where deer are known
to be plenty and usually succeed in killing a great many. When in
_ the vicinity of a white settlement they find a ready market for their
venison and what they do not sell is smoked and dried for future
use; dried venison will keep very well, but it is tough and unpal-
atable.
_ During the planting season both the men and women work in the
field, but when on a hunting expedition the women do all the camp
work. The men, when not hunting, lie about the camp taking it
easy. Upon reaching a new camping place the men take their rifles

28 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

and immediately go off hunting while the squaws are preparing the
camp.

They hunt in the morning and evening, returning to camp before
noon unless they have been unsuccessful in finding game, when they
sometimes tramp about the woods all day.

On these hunting excursions he wears nothing but a cotton shirt
unless it is a very rough country, when he sometimes wears leggings
made of soft leather. He rarely wears his turban except in the
very hottest weather.

The Indians are very skilful hunters, although they seldom use
dogs, in spite of the fact that they always have a lot of curs about
their camps. They hunt deer in the manner known as * still hunt-
ing,” walking about the woods morning and evening, moving
cautiously and silently through the underbrush in a manner peculiar
to a ghost or an Indian, constantly peering about in all directions for
the deer, which they hope to find feeding. Very few white men are
able to kill deer successfully by still hunting, yet the Indian rarely
hunts in any other way. ‘Trained in woodcraft from childhood, he
moves slowly along, stopping every few yards to look about, raising
his head slowly and cautiously above some clump of bushes. His eye
being trained for such work, he is able to see game in places where
it would be practically invisible to the eye of the ordinary hunter.

When trailing a bear or a panther an Indian can often follow
the track without difficulty in places where a person not used to
the woods would be unable to distinguish any mark whatever.
One of the difficulties experienced by non-professional hunters
is to distinguish between a freshly made track and one two or
three days old. In damp sand and in shaded places where the
sun’s rays do not penetrate this is often very difficult to do. An
animal walking on sandy land when it is damp with dew will
press small straws and sticks into it, which, when they rise again,
carry with them numerous particles of damp sand which will
still adhere to them when dry. This, of course, is an almost
positive indication that the track has been made after the dew
had fallen; but when the track is made in shady places and the

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 29

ground remains damp for a week at a time even professional
hunters will sometimes be at fault.

The Indians burn the country every spring in a most reckless
manner, destroying great quantities of timber. They set the dry
grass on fire, so that, by destroying the old grass, the new, fresh
shoots coming up attract the deer and turkeys which are generally
found on such places. Besides this, the ground being burned off
renders still-hunting much more easy, for the game can then be so
much more readily seen. The Indians are splendid hunters, but few
of them can beat a white man shooting at a mark.

I have seen Osceola kill a deer while running at full speed, nearly
a hundred yards distant ; I have also seen him drop two deer, one
after the other, before. the second one had time to run, and on
another occasion I saw him miss a fox-squirrel on the top of a tree
three times in succession.

Wolves are not uncommon in the southwestern portion of Florida,
from the Big Cypress Swamp southward. Osceola (Gart-sum-a-tel-
e-kee) told me that last year he found an old female wolf with two
cubs a little way south of his camp on the Big Cypress. Both
cubs, as well as the old one, were black. He shot the mother,
which he claimed growled and acted very much as a dog would do.
He caught the young cubs alive and carried them to camp, but they
would eat nothing, and after two or three days he killed them ;, as
he described it, «‘ Me bang um heads against a tree.”

Old Charlie, whose name is Barfotartso, told me that he had
heard of large bears beyond the Big Cypress. He said, ‘* One
white man he tell me see big bear, white on breast,” but that he had
never seen one himself, and he did not know if the story were true.
He also told me of a large bat which occurs in Florida, and which,
judging from his description, was a species not yet recorded from
the State, and which would probably spread two feet or more. He
also told me of a black panther which had been killed by the Indians
some years ago. In all probability this was nothing more than a
melanistic example of the common form.

Old Charlie spoke of some very large alligators which he had seen,

30 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

but said, ‘* They all gone.” According to his statement, when he
was a boy game was very abundant in the country about the Cypress
Creek and Hillsboro River. Bears were numerous at that time, but
nowadays it is rare to find one in that country. Deer are still abund-
ant, but Old Charlie says they are much less so than formerly.

In the Big Cypress Swamp and in some localities near Lake
Okeechobee paroquets are numerous. I have seen flocks near
Cypress Creek, and killed a number of specimens last winter near
Snook Creek. At one time they were abundant on the Kis-
simmee River, but are so no longer. Paroquets build their nest in
holes in trees, as a rule, and the Indians wait till the young are half
grown, and then, during the absence of the old birds, they cut the
tree nearly through ; the next night, watching their chance, they
fell the tree quickly with one or two blows of the axe and catch the
birds in the hole before they have time to escape.

LOCATION OF VILLAGES.

THERE are five principal settlements of Florida Indians. These
are situated, (1) in the Big Cypress, southwest of Okeechobee, (2)

INDIAN CAMP, NEW RIVER.

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. Sel

near Miami River, (3) on Fish Eating Creek, northwest of Lake
Okeechobee, (4) on Cow Creek, northeast of Okeechobee, and
(5) at Cat Fish Lake. There are a number of families who have
temporary camps in other localities, and some few Indians have
what they call their permanent camps outside of these villages,
there being, I am told, several Indians living on the islands in

the Everglades, and four or five families have camps on New
River; but nearly all of these have camps elsewhere as well. The

number of Seminole Indians in Florida is variously estimated as
from 250 to 350, and it is possible they may exceed that number.
Many of the Okeechobee Indians are descendants of the Creeks
or Muskogees, as the language spoken there seems to be of that

323 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

tribe. The language spoken by the Miami Indians is somewhat
different.

The chief seat of government is located at Fish Eating Creek, and
at this camp resides Hospataki and Tustanugge, who are chiefs of
note, although, as I understand it, there has been no regularly
recognized head chief among the Seminole Indians since the death
of Tiger Tail. It was customary in the old days to have the chieftain-
ship descend in the female line, but this is not so at present, and if
a chief is now elected it is done by the council.

SEMINOLE HISTORY.

THERE is a tradition handed down from one generation to another
among the Indians to the effect that a very long time ago some
wandering bands of Indians came from the northwest, and, finding
the country fertile and filled with game, they settled in the country
of the then powerful tribes of Florida and Appalachian Indians.
They were received in a friendly manner and for many years lived
on good terms with their neighbors, but later, when their numbers
had increased, they made war upon the Appalachians and succeeded
in destroying that tribe early in the eighteenth century. These
Indians, who belonged to the Creek or Muskogee tribe, became
famous for their warlike abilities. They extended west to the Ala-
bama River, and east throughout Georgia and Northern Florida.
They conquered the Alabama nation who inhabited the country near
the Alabama River; but later restored to them their lands upon the
Alabamians becoming a part of the Creek nation.

At this time various wandering bands settled in Florida, most of
them being descendants of the Creeks or Muskogees. These were
known as Seminoles or ‘‘lost men.” The Indians now known as
Seminoles in Florida are principally descendants of the Muskogee or
Creek nation, but there are a few individuals descended from the
Mickasaukies, Uchees, and Choctaws.

In the year 1835 commenced what is known as the Seminole War.
In the year 1832 a treaty had been made with the Creeks or Semi-

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 33

_ noles (at Banes’ Landing on the Ochlawaha) by which they ceded
their lands which they held in Florida in consideration of the pay-
ment to them of an annuity of $15,400, and they agreed to send a
delegation of chiefs to see the country offered them west of the
Mississippi River to which they had agreed to emigrate. It was
stipulated in the treaty that the cost of emigration should be paid for
by the United States. All cattle owned by the Indians were to be
estimated and paid for, and provision made that each person on
reaching the new location should receive a blanket, a homespun
frock, and an additional annuity of three hundred dollars per year
for fifteen years was to be divided among them, besides other minor
considerations, such as claims for runaway slaves, and the services
of a blacksmith, etc.

It was agreed that they were to remove within three years. The
Seminoles living north of the boundary line (designated by Camp
Moultrie) began to move west, and a few bands continued to emi-
grate until 1835, when the balance refused positively to go at all.

This year marked the commencement of what is known as the
Seminole War. The Indians burned a bridge within six miles of
Fort Brook, on Tampa Bay, and killed a mail-carrier in August
of that year. Charles Emathla, an Indian chief, who was one of
those friendly to the emigration movement, had been killed, and
chiefs Little Cloud and Alligator, with their bands, attacked and
nearly destroyed Major Dade’s company at a place about fifty-five
miles south of Tampa Bay, Major Dade being among the killed.
The party consisted of 114 men, 112 of whom were killed. It was
at this time that Osceola first became prominent in directing ane
movements of the Indians.

Robert Osceola and Charlie Osceola (of the Big Cypress) are
descendants of that celebrated chief. Some of the old Indians are
still alive who took part in that war. In speaking to Old Charlie
(not Charlie Osceola) about Osceola he did not know at first who
I meant, but upon my asking him if he had heard of Powell he
immediately answered, ‘‘ Uncar; me know, great man.”

The older Indians believe to this day that General Harney granted

34 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

them the Everglades to live in forever, and they do not feel kindly
towards the white men who are gradually penetrating further and
further into what they consider to be their domain.

The names of the following war chiefs, of whom I have given a
brief biography, are remembered by many of the present generation
of Florida Indians.

OSCEOLA, war chief of the Seminole tribe. He was born about
the year 1803, and was the son of an English trader named Powell,
his mother being a daughter of a Seminole chief. He was also
called Assini Yahola and Powell, which was the surname of the
white man who married his mother. Osceola signifies the rising
sun. The grandfather of Osceola was a Scotchman who married a
Creek woman; his father, therefore, was a half-breed, but his
mother was a Creek woman of pure blood. He was born on the
Tallapoosa River between the years 1800 and 1806, He was noted
as a ball-player and hunter and for running and wrestling. At the
time of the Seminole War he was not as great a chief as Jumper,
Holata Mico, or Coa Hajo, or Holato Mico, or Red Stick, but rose
to prominence during the Indian hostilities. Osceola soon became
one of the leading chiefs on account of his activity and success in
the Indian War. He had two wives, both of them young. It is
claimed he was taken prisoner at last by treachery while holding a
conference under a flag of truce, and died of inflammation of the
throat in 1838, while confined at Sullivan’s Island as a prisoner
of war.

NEAMATHLA was by birth a Creek, and was at one time the
most distinguished chief in the Seminole tribe. _Neamathla returned
to the Creeks about the year 1826, and sat in council with them in
1827. Foke Luste Hajo was at that time one of the principal
Florida chiefs. He was one of the seven who was appointed to-
visit and explore the country offered to the Seminoles west of the
Mississippi. His associates were Holata Amathla, Jumper, Charlie
_ Amathla, Coa Hajo Arpiucki, and Yaha Hajo. He was friendly
to the whites, and in 1835, at the declaration of war, he was warned
to leave the country by the other Indians. Hola Amathla, Otulke-

Z
a, Fe ae

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS. 35.

Amathla, Foke Luste Hajo, Conhathee Mico, and Foshutchee Mico.
fled to Fort Brook and encamped under the protection of the guns.

CHITTEE YOHOLO, a Seminole chief of note. He was a
young man at the time of the Seminole War, but, being a venture-
some warrior, he soon rose to prominence and received honors from
his tribe. He was given several names. After killing his first
white man he was called Chewasty Emathla. After he had killed
several white men and received several names in succession he was
christened Olocta Tustennugge. He afterwards emigrated to.
Arkansas.

LANGUAGE.

‘THE two principal languages spoken by the Indians now resident
in Florida are known as Okeechobee and Miami. They are quite
different, although many of the Indians speak both languages. That
spoken by Robert Osceola, Old Charlie, Tom Tiger, and the other
New River Indians is the Okeechobee dialect, and is undoubtedly
modified Creek or Muskogee. I was unable to learn what language
‘is spoken by the Miami Indians, but it is quite different. The
majority of the words which I have included in the following vocab-
ulary have beén obtained through conversations with Robert Osceola
(Gart-sum-a-tel-e-kee) and other Indians with whom I have hunted.

VOCABULARY.
AnIndian ... . .. Estee-sar-tsee.
Whiteman ... . .. Estee-hat-kee.
Negro Pe ey). es yo eR eoIStee,
ee tee:
Maman s+ . . . . . Hock-tee.
ee sl Cw ESto-chee.
Remi. «6. 0. CO. SC;,tCt.~SC.:~SC Ee kah-hal-pee.
Tooth Oe) cr aS 5. 2S
RS eg SS ieee,

oe we ee. )6s | A atte-ka-wah.

HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Foot
Stomach .
Town
Chief
Warrior
Friend
Enemy
Kettle
Ax :
Hatchet
Gun

Rifle

Knife .
Boat
Paddle
Legging .
Coat
Shirt
Headdress
Moccasin
Tobacco pipe
Tobacco .
Beads
White beads
Sun
Night ?
Morning .
Summer .
Winter
Wind .
Rain

Fire
Water

E-lee.

Im-pas-sah.

To-lo-fa.

Micco; or See-a-pah-ya.

Tus-ka-nuk-kee hib-otskee.

His-see.

Ho-thlee.

Alk-us-wah.

Pa-chos-wah.

Po-chos-wo-chee.

Klack-o-push-kee-mifsea ; also Ayt-
sah.

I-oke-finegay ; also aytsah-sa-tah-
hee.

Slof-ka.

Pith-lo.

Is-kahf-ko-chee.

Huf-fa-tick-ka.

Ai-o-kof-kee-tah.

Ai-o-kof-ke-ko-chockonnee.

E-ka-sim-enah-hits-ka.

Ist-e-lee-pik-kah.

E-chee-pok-wah.

E-chee.

Lo-nup.

Lo-nup-hat-kee.

Hassee.

Nith-lee.

Hat-ah-yat-kee.

Mis-kee.

Thla-fo.

Ho-tallee.

Os-kay.

Tot-ka; or Toad-ka.

O-ee-wah.

SEMINOLE INDIANS.

We-hat-ka.
Ok-hassee.
Hatchee thlokko.
Hatch-oochee.
Ok-lee-wah-hee.
O-tee.
Chat-to-ko-na-wah.
Chat-to-ko-na-wah-lah-nee.
Its-hoos-tar-gay.
Chee.

Sofkee.

Ah-hah.
Ta-hai-ah.

E-to.
E-to-wah-kee.
Choo-lee.
Lok-tsa-sum-pa.
Pah-pee.
Tuck-lai-kee ; also Ab-bas-wah.
A-pess-wah.
Ets-hass-wah.
E-cho.
No-ko-see.
O-sa-na.
Hal-pa-tah.
Tso-la.

Ya-ha.

E-fah.

E-thlo.

Cho-fee.
Ko-ak-o-chee.
Cat-sa.
Wood-ko.
Sok-a-hat-kee.
Sok-a. ,

Skenk
Horse
Snake

HUNTING

Rattlesnake. . .

Turtle
Fly.
Bite
Goose
Duck .
Partridge
Turkey

Cw: 33

. Tere
. Wise nae
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .

Woodpecker ..:.

Fish>
White

Black

Red.
Blue .
Yellow
Mig ou
Little .
Bag...

Good

Alive .
Dead 4
Cold .

Hot.>.

Sour <,
Sweet
Salt.
Milk .
Butter
Plenty

Food .

Tracks

. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .

AND
. .
. ei
. .
c .
. .
. .
. .
. .
. .
*. .
. .
. .
. .
. *
. .
. °
. °
. | .
. .
. *
. =
. *
. .
. .
rari’

.
. .
. *
‘
.
* .

FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Ko-no.
Cha-lok-ko.
Chitto.
Chun-tee-chu-day.
Lo-tsa.
Tsa-na. —
Fuss-wah.
A-hak-wa.
- Fo-tso.
Ko-ai-kee.
Pen-e-wah.
O-pah.
Tit-ka.
Thla-thlo.
Hat-kee. ‘
Lus-tee.
_ Tsah-tee.
Ok-ho lah-tee.
Lah-nee.
‘Thlokko.
Chot-kee. 4
Hol-war-gus.
Hintz-kay. |
Hee-sah-kee.
E-lottee.
Ka-sappee.
-Hai-ee.
Ka-mok-see.
Tsam-pee.
Ok-tsan-wah.
Wah-ku-pissee.
Wah-ku-pissee-ne-ah.
Orgis. |
Humbugis.
Fund-let.

THE SEMINOLE INDIANS.

pete syer o'ok O-mee-chen.
alia’ @. Revyite-kist.
Hier etek OPIS.

fae ek Annee.

ivi Sd iy) eirarte-jay.
fies Rae ear +, vit eDee,

eee > er eweerlee.

Ae Bebra a Peagt «Ch tC eck

Seid ce ota oe ca Re AOtAL.
va ign: «| A ORBeR:
POR hg: | ODOR
RC sa aT es

pie a os Aiekeastechee.
- » . . +. Ya-hai-kee-tah.
. . . « « O-pan-kee-tah.
ing hes wha. Seeenee-tan.
eRe cc ees.
Seale io. a0: MCR ay.
yee ss» Hilepa-larnis-jay.
Chey-mo-char.

you speak the Indian
ruage . . . . . O-por-nar-gart-g-gate the-tare.
tis the price . . . In-nar-car-poor.
way . . . . . Ist-ah-mar-mar-hen.
oe. ss. In-engite-kar.
epee ok «| + a+ Begite-Kar.
hat do you callit . . Nack-key-tay.
Ba : 1 Klamen.
2 Tookelin.
3 Toceenin.
4 She-larkin.
5 Sarkepin.
6 Eparkin.
7 Colorparkin.
8 Senarparkin.

40 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

9g Osther-parkin.
10 Parlin.

To illustrate the difference between the Creek language and that
spoken by some of the ‘‘ Miami” Indians, I give a few words
selected from a list obtained through the kindness of Miss Freeman,
the daughter of Mr. William Freeman, of Little River.

Horse
Raccoon
Turkey
Cow
Shirt
Dress

Rabbit .

Otter
Wolf
Wildcat
Man
Panther

00 ON AM SW WN H

Hump-kee.
Po-coo-lee.
To-chee-nee.
Osteen.
Cha-kee-pin.
Ee-pa-kin.
Co-la-pa-kin.

To-chee-nee-pa-kin.
Osteen-parkin.

Po-lee.

Co-i-yee.
Su-a-wee.
Fi-tee.
Wau-kee.
Fo-kee-shee-ca.
O-ho-nee.
Cha-co-fee.
O-shy-nee.
O-ba-ho-shee.
Coo-on-o-shee.
Na-co-nee.
Coo-ot-cho-bee.

THE FLORIDA PANTHER.

Tue Florida Panther is still not uncommon in the more unsettled
portions of the State. Itis somewhat smaller and more rufous in
color than its Northern brethren, and its feet are smaller in propor-
tion to the size of the animal. It is comparatively shy and is diffi-
cult to find on account of its habit of continually wandering about,
rarely staying long in one place unless attracted there by an unusual

FLORIDA PANTHER. °

abundance of tood, such as in the vicinity of a hog camp or where
deer are very plenty; but as a rule they move about a great deal,
often traveling twenty miles or more in a night. The Florida
Panther preys upon small animals and is very fond of deer and dogs

42 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

when it can catch them. They hunt as a rule at night; but on cool
and cloudy days or after a rain they often move about in the day-
time. If a panther kills a deer he returns to it the second night, but
rarely the third night, and much of the animal is often left uneaten.
In the old days it was by no means uncommon to find a dead deer
in the woods with the evidence about it of having been killed and
partly eaten by a panther.

The track made by a panther somewhat resembles that of a hound,
but it is larger, and the ball of the foot is relatively much larger; the
toe marks are in front and do not show any mark of a claw unless
the animal is jumping.

We found the fresh trails of seven panthers in one week within
thirty miles of Lake Worth. The soft foot of this great cat leaves
very little trail except in mud or soft sand. In traveling over a piece
of sandy soil the tracks are almost invisible where those of a dog
can be plainly seen.

It was our usual custom to start out at daylight and allow the
hounds to run about as they pleased as we rode slowly through the
woods. Every few minutes a hound would start off on a fresh trail
of some animal, and we would have to call in the other dogs and
«*« slow trail” it until we came to a place where the ground was clear
and soft enough for us to see the tracks and learn what it was they
were after. Oftentimes it would be a deer or cat, and we could
sometimes tell what it was by watching the actions of the dog. If
the trail was very winding and wandered in and out through a piece
of scrub, turning this way and that, we were pretty certain it was
not a panther, for they usually follow a straight course, turning but
little from right to left.

In crossing a piece of open land, a panther walks directly across,
while a deer would make a more or less irregular trail. Then again,
if a hound following a trail smells along the top of an old log, we
know very well that it is not a deer that has walked along the log,
but either a wildcat or a panther.

Of course if we found it was not a panther which the dogs were
trailing we called them off and again continued our search. About

THE FLORIDA PANTHER. 43

eleven o'clock we usually returned tocamp. Later than that, unless

the day was cloudy, no dog could follow a trail on sandy soil in
the hot, dry weather of Southern Florida. Sometimes the panther
would make a trail late in the morning, and then of course it could

be followed until
afternoon, but usu-
ally the trails were
made early at night,
and became _ too
** cold” to be fol-
lowed after the sun
had been shining
on them for several
hours. It was easy
enough to follow
through the grass
where the ground
was still moist, but
upon coming out
upon high, sandy,
spruce ridges the
hounds would lose
the scent and
wander aimlessly
about trying to re-
cover it.

In such cases we
could sometimes
assist them where
the tracks were dis-
cernible in the soft
sand, but in many
places the ground

JOHN DAVIS.

was just hard enough so that it was im-

possible to see signs of the trail except at long intervals, and the
time occupied in attempting to follow it across one of those

44 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

dry places usually delayed us until too late to continue the hunt.
A panther when ‘* jumped” by the hounds. usually runs but a
short distance, and then climbs a tree, and in such cases may be
easily killed by the hunter ; but sometimes the panther does not
take to a tree, but conceals himself in thick undergrowth, and
there it is more difficult to get at him and he is sometimes ugly.
' Panthers will rarely attack a man unless wounded or with cubs,
‘but they will fight the dogs, which have little chance against their
teeth and claws. One particular panther which I killed in the spring
of 1895 was quite ugly, charging the dogs savagely whenever they
approached her. |

Panthers are not uncommon in the wilder portion of the State,
both on the east and west coast. The Indians report them numerous
in the vicinity of the Big Cypress south of Fort Myers. During the
winter of 1895 they were quite numerous near the cypress swamps
about Long Hammock and Custard Apple Hammock and south-
west of Lake Worth. John Davis killed six in one season. They
are scarce now on the peninsula east of the Indian River, but were
common there a few years ago. In 1892 I saw the fresh tracks
of a large panther near Canaveral, and back in the ‘ eighties”
Mr. O. A. Quarterman killed several in the vicinity of Canaveral, once
making a double shot at two old males that he discovered fighting
on the bank of Banana Creek. They vary much in size. Florida
Panthers which will measure ten feet in length are exceedingly rare,
and from what I am told by the hunters and Indians I am inclined
to believe that a panther nine feet in length may be considered a big
one in Florida. A good-sized male will weigh between one hundred
and one hundred and twenty-five pounds, and I have seen full-_
grown panthers (females) which weighed less than eighty-five
pounds.

A PANTHER HUNT.

I was awakened before daybreak, and after dressing myself and
eating a light breakfast we were in the saddle and well away from
camp before it was light enough to follow a trail. The grass and

THE FLORIDA PANTHER. 45

bushes were dripping with dew, and an energetic but somewhat
_ dissipated chuck-will’s-widow was whistling away with much fervor.
A moment later and a crow cawed from the top of a small pine, and
then the full avian orchestra commenced in earnest, and the belated
chuck-will’s-widow was heard no more.

The dogs, eager to find a trail, were running in and out of the
thick bushes, occasionally starting off on the trail of a deer or wild-
cat, upon which they were immediately called back by Davis.

Soon the sun rose, and then the bird music gradually ceased,
although the bluebirds piped away alone for some time, occasionally
assisted by a crow. At times the dogs would strike a trail on hard
ground where we could see nothing. We would then have to call
them in and «slow trail” it until we came toa place where the
ground was soft enough to enable us to see the tracks.

Usually it proved to be a deer, sometimes a cat, but we were
not after deer and cats, except of a larger kind, so the dogs were
called off and we kept on. Panther tracks two or three days old
were not uncommon, but no ‘*‘ fresh” ones were found, and I began
to think we should have to give it up and return to camp. Once or
twice the dogs sniffed along the top of a fallen tree, and our spirits
immediately rose, as we knew that in all probability the animal that
walked there was either a cat or a panther, but in every instance a
further investigation proved it to have been the former.

At times each of us would take a hound and hunt in different
directions, meeting later at some point agreed upon, and then again
we would hunt all the dogs together. In this way we covered a great
deal of ground.

At last ‘‘ Cleve” started off on an apparently fresh trail and was
‘immediately followed by the other dogs. Davis called him back
and made him go slowly until he came to a piece of soft sand where
the trail was plain and clear, and which this time proved to be that
of a large panther, and was evidently quite ‘‘ fresh.” At this time
I was not with them, so Davis and Gale started on to follow the
animal alone. The dogs ‘‘jumped” him within a mile of where
they struck the trail, and the animal ran for perhaps a quarter of a

40 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

mile before taking to a tree. When Davis came up he saw the
panther about twenty feet from the ground, standing upon a small
limb, hardly large enough to support it, and looking about in an un-
easy manner. Just above the panther was a larger limb where she
could rest secure if she would take the trouble to mount a few feet
higher, but instead of doing this she continued looking anxiously
about, and as Davis approached was evidently making up her mind
to leave the tree. Davis, knowing that I was particularly anxious
to obtain a photograph of a panther, and as the tree was in an exposed
and sunny place, immediately conceived the idea that 1f he should
wound the hind legs of the animal with a small shot the panther
would probably go higher up the tree and sun herself there until I
should arrive. The result of this experiment was not a grand suc-
cess, for upon receiving the charge of shot in her hind feet the panther
immediately sprang (according to Davis’ statement) at least forty
feet from the tree and ran with all the dogs after her into the
cypress swamp, where she turned and attacked the dogs savagely,
uttering in the meantime the loudest roars for an animal of its size
that Davis had ever heard. The place where the panther concealed
itself was about two hundred yards into the thick cypress swamp,
where the ground was soft and wet. So, leaving Gale to follow with
the dogs if the panther made a fresh start, Davis came back for
me.

When I reached the spot and saw the place in which the animal
had concealed herself, I was satisfied it was useless to attempt to try
to photograph this one, so, leaving the camera with Davis, I took my
rifle and pushed my way slowly into the swamp where I could hear
the dogs barking furiously, and Doc’s voice was soon added to the
chorus. As I-neared them I heard the panther snarling and growl-
ing savagely, occasionally making short rushes through the under-
brush, evidently charging a dog. Suddenly she started off and ran
perhaps one hundred or one hundred and fifty yards still further into
the swamp, where the ground was more marshy and the undergrowth
still more dense. It was impossible to see more than ten or fifteen
yards in any direction through the thick undergrowth, and in some

THE FLORIDA PANTHER. 47

_ places it was necessary to cut the thorn vines at almost every step.

Slowly pushing my way in, listening to the dogs, especially to the
shrill, high piping of Doc, who uttered almost a continuous howl
whenever the panther moved, I approached within twelve or fifteen
yards of where the animal was concealed.

Stepping cautiously over the logs and peering about me at every
possible place where I thought she might be, I located her pretty
definitely by the actions of the hounds which were now close to
me, moving about from place to place, but all gazing in the direction
of a thick clump of ferns and bushes surrounding an immense fallen
_ cypress. Cautiously moving to one side, I saw the panther crouch-
ing beside and partly under the fallen tree. She was not over

twenty feet distant, and as she turned her snarling face towards me
she presented one of the ugliest pictures I have ever seen. Her
ears were drawn tightly back and she exposed a splendid set of
teeth. A very pungent, musty odor was perceptible. As she
turned towards me all the dogs sprang at her at once. Even gentle
little Doc threw himself bravely into the fray, and crippled Cleve
jumped at her as gamely as ever. She turned on them with a
quickness that was astonishing, uttering a snarling roar while
biting and clawing at them savagely ; but just then I fired, once,
twice, three times, as fast as I could work the lever, and the great
cat lay kicking and aimlessly biting, as the dogs worried her and
fastened their teeth in her tough hide, while I cheered them on, and
praised them, and told them what good dogs they were. Poor
Cleve laid himself down close to the panther and commenced licking
his foreleg, in which the bone was badly crushed. Bruce showed
a long cut on his flank, and little Doc was scratched about the neck;
luckily, none of the wounds were serious, although Cleve was laid
up for some time. This was Doc’s first panther and he was beside
himself with joy and excitement. He would rush at the. dead
animal, and bite her, and bark at the same time, and then come
running to me, wagging his tail and looking up into my eyes, as if
to say, ‘‘ Did you see me bite her? I was a little afraid at first,
she was so big and ugly, but when I saw her turn towards you I

48 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

forgot all about being afraid.” And then, with a joyful bark, he
would rush off to repeat the performance.

In a few minutes the men joined me, having heard the shots, and
Gale and Davis carried the panther out in the open ground at the
edge of the cypress swamp. Here we photographed her, after
which Davis and I rode out to camp some twenty miles away,
taking the panther with us and leaving Gale to spend the night with

two old hunters, Smith and Wooten, who were in camp some
three miles away. This panther was a female and measured
about seven feet in length from nose to tip of tail. The next day
Gale had a very peculiar experience with a panther, which is
worthy of relating. As Gale tells the story, after I had left him
he walked to Smith’s camp as I had directed, taking the dogs with
him. The next morning he started bright and early with the two

iy
ees

THE FLORIDA PANTHER. 49

hunters to come out to Little Fish Crossing, and they had not gone
_ more than a quarter of a mile from camp before the dogs found a
perfectly fresh track of a good-sized panther. They held a consul-
_ tation as to the advisability of sending for me, but, knowing that I
had probably started for Lake Worth, it was decided to let the dogs
run him for awhile.*

The track was on the side of a small cypress swamp, perhaps a
_ few hundred yards in extent, and the dogs ran directly into this
and came out the other side, baying loudly. Old man Smith
_ mounted a large fallen tree, and Wooten and Gale walked off to
one side, attempting to locate the direction in which the dogs were
going. Suddenly they heard the dogs coming directly toward them,
and Gale saw the panther bounding along, towards Smith, who at
that moment also saw him and attempted to take aim. Gale says,
at every bound of the panther, Smith, who was on the tree, would
_ raise and lower his gun until the animal was within thirty or forty
‘ yards, when he fired both barrels, whereupon the panther made a
tremendous spring, landed within a few feet of the tree, and turned
a somersault. Gale believed that some of the bones in his shoulder

had been broken and that, although he was able to spring forward

all right, upon striking the ground with the injured foot it gave
way, because after every spring the animal turned completely over.
Wooten came running up and attempted to fire, when the panther
sprang at him, again turning completely over.

The animal then acted in a most peculiar manner, springing into
the air and turning over, as Gale described it, ‘‘ like a hen with its
head cut off.” Seeing he was no longer dangerous, Wooten and
Smith ran up and finished him. He measured seven feet one inch
in length, and was an old male panther, though not as large as they
sometimes grow.

* An account of this was given in the Jacksonville Metrofolis of May 11, 1895.

THE BLACK. BEAK,

Tue Black Bear is still numerous in'many parts of Florida, espe-
cially near the coast. Contrary to what might be expected, it grows
as large, if not larger, in Florida than elsewhere in the United States.
I have killed old males which I believe weighed over five hundred
pounds, and old hunters have repeatedly told me that they have
killed them weighing six hundred pounds. Unfortunately, the above

weights were estimated and the animals were not actually placed
upon the scales. However, I am satisfied that there is at least one
bear in Florida alive to-day (or he was last spring) which will tip

5°

THE BLACK BEAR. 51

_ the scales at over five hundred pounds. Last year I carried scales
with me and weighed several bears which I killed, but, unfortu-
nately, none of them were very large. A comparatively small
female weighed 350 pounds, and a male 411 pounds. This last
bear was fat, but not as large as some I have killed. The largest
bear I ever saw in Florida stood up in the scrub within twenty yards
of me, and I had a fair shot at him, but for the first and only time
in my life a Winchester rifle cartridge failed to explode. Before
I had time to push the lever and throw in another cartridge he
dropped out of sight in the high palmetto, and, although the dogs
chased him for several miles, he swam the river and I never saw
him again.

A Black Bear will not attack a man unless badly wounded or with
cubs, although, as the exception proves the rule, one large fellow
charged one of my men, who rode ahead of him in open ground and
tried to turn him by tickling him with small shot.

Bears hibernate in Florida as they do elsewhere in North America,
usually remaining hidden from about the last of December until
March. In the spring they hunt for crabs along the shore and eat
the young ‘‘ palmetto cabbage” and the seeds of the mangrove,
called ‘*‘ mangrove buds.” In June they hunt the beaches for turtles’
eggs, of which they are very fond. In the fall they subsist princi-
pally on the palmetto berries, which grow in great abundance in the
sandy lands bordering the ocean beach, and if not disturbed they
remain in such places until it is time for them to house up for the
winter. They then become very fat and are easily brought to bay
by the dogs, generally running but a short distance. The flesh of a
comparatively young bear is very palatable when properly cooked,
and the fat makes a very satisfactory substitute for lard and is much
esteemed by the Indians as well as by many of the white settlers.

Good sport may be had hunting bears in Florida, but to hunt them
successfully one must have a really good lot of hounds. One or
two at least must be thoroughly trained ‘‘ bear dogs.” Bear dogs
are not easy to find; still, one may be had now and then by paying
a high price for him. There are plenty of dogs that will ‘ take”

a“ -

52 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

a bear’s trail and follow it for a short distance, but a good bear dog
must chase a bear all day and bay him alone, if necessary, for hours
until his master arrives upon the scene. Good horses are also an

PAT AND GALE, WITH TRIP, DOC, AND TIGER.

important factor. They should be trained to stand where they are
left without tying, to be used to rough traveling in rough places,
and not at all gun-shy.

THE BLACK BEAR. 53

In December, 1893, I had particularly good sport in Florida,
_ bagging four bears and chasing several others which I did not
bag. Bears were unusually numerous in that locality where I was
hunting, owing to the great abundance of palmetto berries and to
the presence in the vicinity of two or three good water holes.

The following extracts from my diary will give some idea of bear
hunting in Florida under favorable conditions : —

Dec. 8, 1893: To-day our shooting party consisted of three
guns, — Count A., Mr. C., and myself, — having with us the usual
outfit of men, horses, and hounds. To hunt bears luxuriously in
Florida the outfit should consist of good saddle horses (used to the
_ woods and not gun-shy), good dogs, and two men, one to follow
the hounds and the other to act as general utility man, take mes-
sages, and carry the lunch, water, etc., while the ‘* guns” of the
party devote their entire attention and energies to heading off the
bear or getting to the place where the dogs are baying him,
_ the latter probably in some thick scrub where it is impossible to
ride and where the hunter must dismount and push his way in on
foot.

‘Shortly after turning the hounds loose a chorus of exultant yells
told us that they had found a fresh trail and were off. The wild
shouts of Gale cheering on the dogs assured us that the bear
had been started or ‘‘ jumped.” He ran for about a mile and then
bayed in a very thick live-oak hummock. But before any one could
get to him he was off again and did not stop until he had run at
least two miles or more, when he again stopped in a thick, high
scrub, and evidently made up his mind that he had run far enough.

The bear was in a very thick place where the palmetto and small
oak trees were higher than my head in places. I pushed my way
up to where the dogs were holding their concert ; a short recitative
by the leading hound being invariably followed by a full chorus, a
dog called Blue carrying the high tenor part in fine style. When-
ever there was a lull in the performance I| could hear the bear pant-
ing heavily not more than fifteen or twenty feet from me, but
perfectly concealed by the thick scrub. Occasionally his bearship

54 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

made a short rush at the nearest dog, uttering a peculiar sort of
rumbling growl or grunt as he did so. During one of these charges
I saw him for an instant not more than twenty feet from me, and
shot him through the lungs with a bullet from my 45-70 Winchester.
He immediately rose on his hind feet and turned towards me, receiv-
ing another ball in the chest as he did so. Over he went, with the
whole lot of dogs on him as he fell. I shot him once again, fearing
that he might still be able to injure the dogs, but it was not needed.

This bear was an old male and very fat. He weighed about
five hundred pounds (estimated) and measured six feet two inches
from nose to tail (straight line), and eight feet six inches from hind
claw to nose ; around the chest he measured a trifle over fifty-four
inches ; one of his front claws was three and a quarter inches long
(measured on the curve); altogether, he was a pretty fair Florida
bear.

THE BLACK BEAR. 55

SaturpDAy, Dec. 16, 1893: I hunted the large ‘* hammock”
where we lost the big bear yesterday. Tom Murray went with me,
and Pat and Gale looked after the horses and dogs. Trip found a
fresh trail of an old she bear and ran south with the other dogs for
several miles before they finally ‘‘ bayed” her in a thick, high scrub.
I could hear her growling and snapping at the dogs; but could not
see her, and the next moment she was off again with the dogs at her

heels. She ran south a mile or more; but we took the open beach,
and, riding fast, headed her in a rather open bit of country with low
palmetto scrub not far north of Cape Canaveral. Tom Murray rode
in ahead of her, and she turned and passed within twenty feet of me,
and I dropped her stone dead with a quartering shoulder shot. She
was the first and only bear that I have ever killed with a single bul-
let so dead as to not even kick after being hit. She was a very old
female, although rather small, probably weighing less than three

56 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

hundred pounds. We extemporized a harness with a rope and some
straps and Bob succeeded in dragging her out to the beach. The
skull of this bear is now in the National Museum.

TuEspAY, JAN. 2, 1894: Trip and one of the other dogs jumped
a bear in a hummock, and I had a snap shot at him as he crossed a
narrow strip of open ground, and think I wounded him slightly.
He ran for a mile or more and then stopped in a thick bit of high
palmetto. The day was hot and it was hard work following on
foot through the thick scrub, and when I reached the place where
the bear was fighting the dogs I was completely exhausted, and
instead of going in at once I waited a moment or two to recover my
breath. As I stood, gasping and dizzy, the bear started off again,
and I had a good view of him as he jumped a fallen tree, and should
have hit him, but my hand was too unsteady, and I believe I made a
clean miss. In getting over the tree he rested his fore feet and then
his hind feet on it, as a dog does going over a wall. After a few
moments’ rest I pushed my way through the scrub to the beach,
where I found Pat leading Bob. Hastily mounting, I galloped south
for a couple of miles and heard the dogs ‘‘ baying ” in a thick piece of
very high palmetto scrub, filled with small, dead oak trees which had
evidently been killed by fire. The bushes were so high and thick I
could not see the bear, but the dogs were close to me, and I knew they
were close to the bear. I cheered on the dogs, hoping the bear
would show himself, and Ze dtd. There was a rush and out came Trip
and Brown, and the next instant I caught a glimpse of a black object
directly under my horse’s nose. I tried to shoot, but a branch caught
my arm, and Bob’s sudden start disconcerted me, and the next instant
the bear had disappeared. I-followed as long as I could hear the
dogs ; but I soon lost them, and after riding about for an hour or
more I gave it up and rode back to camp, where I found two of the
dogs. Trip and Brown did not get back until late in the evening.

TuEspay, APRIL 3, 1894: ‘The dogs found the fresh trail of a
small bear and ‘‘ jumped” him near a small creek. He ran directly
south and I never saw or heard the dogs after the first fifteen min-
utes. Several hours later they all came back except Tige and

ta eh

ee eg ee ee ee eee EY a ee a

ee Se ee ee a a

ae ae

THE BLACK BEAR. 57

Brown; they did not return until night. During the ride I startled a
Barn owl (S¢v7x pratinco/a) out of a small tree, and saw an unusual
number of Quail (C. vzrgznzanus), nearly all of which were in pairs.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 4, 1894: Started very early and hunted
faithfully for some hours, but the dogs failed to find a fresh trail.
Bears are wandering about at this season of the year and do not
stay long in one place. Saw several fresh deer tracks and dug out
the old water holes where the bears go to drink. Two of them were
nearly dry.

TuurspAy, APRIL 5, 1894: As we drove down the beach this
morning the sun was just rising above the horizon. The air was
cool and damp. A few willets and turnstones were feeding along
the beach, and flocks of Brown Pelicans (P. /uscus) passed us, fly-
ing parallel to the shore, about two hundred yards from the beach.
They flew in line, one behind the other, and they would all flap
their wings or sail motionless, following the example of their leader.
I intended to
hunt some miles
further south,
but as we had
made rather a
late start I de-
termined to
look at some
old water holes
near by, hoping
to find signs
of bear in the
vicinity. Leav-
ing the wagon
on the beach,
I mounted old
Bob, Quarter-
man riding Doctor, while Gale and Pat followed on foot, leading
the hounds. Shortly after reaching the edge of a wide marsh we

RATTLESNAKE.

58 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

rode directly over a large rattlesnake which coiled and rattled, but
did not offer to strike the horse as he stepped over it. I dismounted
and shot its head to pieces with a rifle bullet; first taking several
snap photographs of it, holding the kodak as close to its ugly head
as I dared as it lay there rattling and ready to strike. It was a
thick, heavy snake, although not a very long one, measuring five
feet, nine inches. It had nine rattles and a button.*

- Upon reaching the water holes I found one of them dry, but there
was water in the other and a large bear had visited it within a few
hours. His tracks were very plain and fresh in the soft mud and
sand about the hole.

The dogs got away well together, Trip and Tige leading, followed
by Brown and the others. Several of my dogs will run a bear well
for a short distance, but will not fight or bring him ‘to bay” by
biting and snapping at his legs. Trip will follow a bear all day and
bay him alone at times, and this was the case to-day. The dogs
jumped the bear within ten minutes after being started, and he ran
for about two miles to the north, Quarterman and I following along
the marsh and keeping within hearing of the dogs and Gale. Gale’s
yells to encourage the dogs could be heard when we could not hear
the hounds. Soon after the bear turned to the southeast and we
could hear nothing of the dogs or Gale.

Quarterman rode further north, while I galloped south to an old
trail through the scrub, on the chance that the bear might have gone
that way. As I reached the trail I heard Trip, and a few minutes
after saw the bear crossing a ridge about a hundred yards off, where
the scrub was low and thin. I had a fair chance at him, but just as
I fired my horse swerved just enough to spoil the shot, and the next
minute he was off and away in a thicket where no horse could fol-
low. Pat came up with Tige and Brown, and I put them on the
fresh trail, which they eagerly took and went off giving tongue finely.
Shortly after two, or perhaps three, of the dogs ‘‘ bayed” the bear
in a small live-oak hummock, but he was off again before I could
come up with them. It was now getting hot and three hounds came

* Other photographs of living rattlesnakes will be found under the chapter on Florida snakes.

THE BLACK BEAR. 59

back to us very much in need of water and overcome with the heat.
On the marsh I met Quarterman and we went north again to a thick,
high scrub where we hoped we might find the bear bayed. All the
hounds had come back to us except Trip and Brown, and we did
not know where they were or what direction they had taken. When
Trip becomes tired he makes little noise.

Just as we had about made up our minds that we had lost the bear
I heard Trip bark not two hundred yards from us, in some thick,
high scrub. We went in on foot, leaving the horses on the edge of
the marsh. We separated, keeping about fifty yards apart, although
we, of course, could not see one another. Trip was obstinately
silent and we could not locate the exact place where he was, but we
were sure the bear was there somewhere, for if he had started off
Trip would have made noise enough. After going a short distance
through a most discouraging tangle of roots and bushes I heard
Quarterman shout and then a series of howls from Trip, that seemed
to move rapidly south, and it did not need Quarterman’s yell of
‘¢ He’s off to the south ” to make me hurry back through the scrub
to where I had left my horse, mount him, and gallop as hard as I
could to the old trail. There I found Gale and Pat and several of
the dogs. Gale, who was riding Quarterman’s horse, shouted to me
that the bear had just crossed the trail going south, followed by
Trip all alone. There was just a chance that I might head
him off on a trail leading to the beach, about half a mile further
south, so away I rode as fast as I could make ‘Old Bob” go
over the rough trail. I feared I would be’too late, but I made it
just in time, for, as I turned into the cleared path at a gallop, I heard
Trip’s voice close to me, and out of the scrub came the bear not
- thirty yards distant, but behind me, so that I had to turn half around
in the saddle to fire. It was a snap shot, but I dropped him in his
tracks with a bullet through the shoulder. He was up again,
however, in an instant, Trip hanging to him bravely. To dismount
and fire two more shots from the Winchester 45 —did not take long,
and the bear lay dead, with Trip biting and tugging at his flanks.
This bear was an old male; I weighed him carefully, and he tipped

60 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

the scales at exactly 351 pounds. This was not at all heavy for
the size of the bear. He was rather thin and in good running con-
dition, which accounted for the long chase he had given us. He
measured eight feet and four inches from hind claw to end of nose,
six feet and two inches from nose to tail, forearm seventeen inches,
and chest forty-seven inches. When fat he would probably have
weighed nearly five hundred pounds. The width of his forefoot
was six and a quarter inches.

Monpay, ApriL 9g, 1894: To-day I found a fresh trail of a
medium-sized bear about five miles to the south. It was early, the
ground was still damp, and the dogs were fresh and eager. Away
they went in a bunch in full cry, Trip and Tige in the lead. Brown
and Dan are down with the ‘‘ staggers,” and I miss Brown’s voice.
I followed them the best I could, which was not very fast, as the
scrub was thick. They ‘‘ jumped” the bear within five minutes of
starting, and he ran due south, so I turned and rode for the open
beach. Once out of the thick scrub, I galloped south for several
miles before again taking the scrub, hoping to head the bear. After
waiting for ten or fifteen minutes and hearing nothing of the dogs, I
saw aman in the distance waving his hat. It was Gale, with the
cheerful information that the bear had turned and gone north.
Away I went up the beach to a trail some miles north of me, and as
I neared it I heard Trip baying something, apparently all alone in a
small hummock about half a mile away. The scrub was very thick
and high, but, pushing my way through it I arrived within about two
hundred yards of the spot, when, crash, away went the bear, show-
ing himself for an instant as he dashed into a lot of high bushes, and
I never saw him again. Ride where I would, I could not hear the
dogs anywhere, or, rather, the dog, for Trip was the only one follow-
ing him. The others had given it up and joined us, one after the
other, as we rode back to the wagon. Just as I was starting home
Trip came back to me, looking very tired and hot, and, I have no
doubt, thoroughly disgusted. Three of the hounds have the ‘** stag-
gers,” which often proves fatal in this climate. Their hind legs seem
to be paralyzed, but they apparently suffer no pain.

DEER.

DEER hunting is by no means such easy work as one who has not
tried it might imagine. Of course, deer are so numerous in some
localities that any one who can shoot straight can hardly fail to kill
one in a day’s hunt; but such places are becoming more rare year
by year. Not so very long ago it was no uncommon sight to see

eight or ten deer feeding on a prairie at one time, but such sights
are rare nowadays.

Deer are usually hunted in one of three ways (fire hunting not
included, the latter being rarely indulged in by a true sportsman),

62 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

viz.: (1) Hunting on horseback and running the deer with hounds ;
this method to be successful requires a party of hunters and some
one to direct operations who is thoroughly acquainted with the
country. (2) To ‘slow trail” them, which is usually the most
satisfactory way to hunt them. A hound trained to follow a trail
slowly and without barking is used, and must go slow enough to
enable the hunter to keep within a few yards of him all the time ;
sooner or later the deer is ‘‘ jumped,” usually within easy shooting
distance. The third method is known as still hunting. To bea
successful ‘ still hunter” requires keen eyesight combined with a
knowledge of woodcraft and the habits and ways of deer which
comparatively few white men possess. Indians always hunt deer in
this manner, but they have been
trained to it all their lives, and
always hunt where they know
there is plenty of game. A single
deer may often be stalked and shot
almost in open ground where there
is only an occasional bush or clump
of grass for cover.

animal, and creeping forward while
it has its head down feeding, and remaining perfectly motionless
when it lifts its head, one may often approach within easy shooting
distance. A deer, as a rule, shakes his tail before lifting his head.
On one occasion I had approached within perhaps 125 yards of a
buck in an open prairie when the grass was not over twelve or fifteen
inches high. I was creeping along on my hands and knees, when he
suddenly raised his head and looked directly at me before I had
time to lay down in the grass. I remained perfectly still, and after
gazing steadily at me for a moment he stamped once or twice,
advanced a few steps and stamped again, but after examining me
for some time he apparently came to the conclusion that I was part
of the scenery and not dangerous ; whereupon he commenced to feed
again.

By keeping to leeward of the |

DEER. 63

When a deer is stalked
and sees something of
which he is afraid he gen-
erally utters a snort of
alarm, and then away he
goes, his white tail held
straight up in the. air,
showing clearly as he
bounds high over the
bushes. If you have fired
at him and he goes off with his tail down you may be sure he is
badly wounded. I have shot at deer at long range and seen them
go away without raising their tails, but could find no signs of blood
along the trail; yet upon following it for a short distance the deer
would be found quite dead. Oftentimes a deer will bleed badly from
a comparatively slight wound, and again be seriously wounded

and bleed externally but
iis ween _ little.
The Florida Deer is
smaller and varies slightly
in color from the true C.
virgintanus. A full-
grown buck will often not
weigh over 110 pounds,
although I have killed
them considerably larger,
and probably they occa-
sionally ( though rarely)
approach in size their
Northern relation. In
Florida as elsewhere the
bucks drop their antlers

every year, usually about
February. The rutting
season occurs in Septem-

64. HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

ber and early October, and the young are born in April and
early May.

The Indians burn the prairies early in the year, and deer are
attracted to the ‘‘ burns” by the young and tender new grass. It is
by using such methods and being expert hunters that they kill
great numbers of these animals ; but I am glad to say but very
little of the meat is wasted; what they do not sell, they smoke and
keep for their own use.

Notr.—Two of the photographs of deer were not takenin Florida. The full-page photogravure represents a
group of wild deer on the author’s preserves in Massachusetts.

ALLIGATORS AND CROCODILES.

a ALLIGATORS.

Tue largest alligator I have ever seen in Florida was killed near
Enterprise, on the St. John River, and measured fourteen feet within
a fraction of aninch. I have killed several alligators over twelve
1 feet in length, and one which measured thirteen feet two inches,

ALLIGATOR.

which I shot on the St. John River near the mouth of the Wikiva
Creek. Large alligators have of late years become rather scarce,
although nearly every year I kill one or more which will exceed
eleven feet.

66 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

One often hears marvelous stories regarding the size of alligators
killed by this or that hunter ; but I do not believe that there exists
to-day in Florida an alligator which will actually measure seven-
teen feet in length. The head of an alligator killed on the St.
Sebastian River in 1893, purchased by Mr. W. V. Rhoads, of
Rockledge, Florida, is so much larger than any specimens I have
ever seen that I did not for a moment discredit his statement that
the animal measured when killed a trifle over sixteen feet in
length.

The alligator lays its eggs in the sand, where they are hatched by
the heat of the sun, and the young alligators then collect in some
small hole where the mother keeps watch over them. The piping,
or grunting, as it is called, of the young alligator somewhat resem-
bles the piping call of a henturkey. It is imitated by the ‘* skin
hunter,” who is usually able to call to the surface almost any old
alligator which may be lying within hearing distance. I have
seen John Davis repeatedly call
alligators to the surface of small
ponds where there was no sign
of one when we arrived. After
two or three grunts, as it is termed
(although the call does not re-
semble a grunt at all), one or
more alligators would rise to the
surface and lay looking at us for
amoment. The hunter has to shoot quickly under these circum-

stances, as the alligator soon discovers the deception and will not

come upa second time for any amount of grunting. The little alli-
gators may be called to the surface in a similar manner and caught
by hand or a small dip net. I have many times caught dozens of
them in this manner by simply leaning over the edge of a bank
under which were a large number of young alligators and ‘‘ grunt-
ing” them to the surface, where they were seized and placed in a
box, until nearly all of them had been captured. An alligator
under fifteen inches is comparatively safe to handle, as their teeth

ALLIGATORS AND CROCODILES. 67

are extremely small. Largerthan that, they are sometimes inclined
to be ugly and their small teeth cut sharply.

Years ago the alligator was very destructive to dogs. Young
dogs which went down to the rivers to drink often did not return,
and the howling of a dog would instantly bring to the surface any
alligator which might be within hearing distance. Hunting dogs
while swimming
streams and ponds
were often killed
or badly bitten by
these animals; but
at present so few
of the large ones
are left, and they
have become so
shy, that it is a
rare thing to hear
of dogs being in-
jured by them.

The alligator is
often found on land
some distance from
water; in such
cases it is well to
keep away from its
tail, as it strikes with great power and is capable of doing con-
siderable injury. The danger from this is probably exaggerated.

One method of hunting alligators which is quite commonly prac-
tised is to pull them out of their holes under the banks of the rivers
and on the borders of the ponds. When the water gets low enough
at certain seasons of the year these holes may be found, and by in-
vestigating them with the aid of a long pole, if the alligator is at
home he will soon give signs of life, usually grunting and moving
about. Oftentimes he will savagely bite the end of the pole when
it touches him. A large hook, resembling a shark hook, is attached

ALLIGATOR.

68 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

to the end of the pole, and a rope fastened to the hook in case the
pole should break. The alligator may then be hooked, pulled out
of the hole, and shot; but it frequently requires two or three men to
accomplish this if it be a large one. While being drawn to the
entrance of the hole he roars and bellows in a lively manner. I
have taken several alligators in this manner which measured over
eleven feet in length.

When alligators fight with each other they attempt to seize the
upper jaw. I once saw two large alligators fighting in a very shal-
low pond ; each made several :
ineffectual attempts to obtain
the jaw hold without success.
At last the larger one suc-
ceeded in seizing his oppo-
nent by the upper jaw and
immediately rolled over and
over, breaking his opponent’s
jaw close. to the head, killing
him instantly. This is, I am
told, the usual method em-
ployed by alligators when
fighting with one another.

In localities where alliga-
tors are much hunted they
become very wary and shy,
and lay with their heads to-
ward the water, sleeping
with ‘* one eye open,” and at
the slightest sound they do
the ‘* vanishing lady” to per-
fection. A hunter paddles
cautiously up some creek where he knows a large alligator some-
times repairs for an afternoon siesta — one careless motion so that the
paddle just touches the side of the boat and a loud splash in the dis-
tance tells him his chance to kill that alligator has gone for that day.

ALLIGATOR,

ALLIGATORS AND CROCODILES. 69

_ The skin hunters kill alligators at night, using a light with which
Re they are able to ‘ shine ” their eyes. The alligator does not fear a
light, and as the boat approaches within a few feet of the animal it
is shot without difficulty. Thousands are killed annually in this
_ manner, and their skins are shipped North or sold to intermediate
dealers in Jacksonville and vicinity at the rate of ten cents per run-
ning foot. The much more sportsman-like way of hunting the
alligator is by ‘‘ still-hunting ” them in the daytime, paddling silently
up the creeks and rivers, where at times they may be found asleep
or sunning themselves on the banks. In places where they have
been much hunted this is by no means easy to do. Where the alli-
_ gators have not been disturbed they are tame and lazy, and I have
passed within a few feet of several that gazed stupidly at me without
attempting to leave the bank. A good rifle is the proper weapon
with which to hunt alligators. I prefer a 45 Winchester, either
45-70 or 45-90, which has power enough to kill the animal and not
merely wound it and allow it to escape and die. A shot striking the
__ eye or any portion of the head so as to penetrate the brain is almost
instantly fatal. It is rare that a shot in the body will stop an alli-
gator where he lies, and it is not advisable to shoot at the body if
_ the head is exposed. The old idea that a rifle-ball would glance
from the skin of an alligator does not apply to modern weapons.
If a rifle-ball strikes fairly it will penetrate the skin without diffi-
culty and will sometimes pass completely through the body.
Before closing my remarks on large alligators I will refer to an
entry which I once saw in the register of the Brock House.
_ In the old days, when transportation was more difficult than it is at
present, the Brock House was about the end of civilization and was
a twenty-four hours’ trip by boat from Jacksonville. It was at that
time a great resort for sportsmen, who were attracted there by the
fishing and shooting to be had in the vicinity. The old register,
which extended back a great many years, contained some queer
records, some of them of doubtful veracity. Among others, some
one has written : ‘‘ March 19, 1872, killed a large alligator, the
largest seen here this year ; the stomach contained a boot, a piece

7O HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

of pine wood, a fisherman’s float, and some small fish.” Immedi-
ately beneath this record was another which evidently some wag
had added : ‘*March 24, killed a much bigger alligator than the
one mentioned above. The stomach contained a gold watch,
$10,000 in government bonds, and a cord of wood.” On the next
page, written in a neat, unobtrusive style, was inscribed the follow-
ing : ‘*Shot the biggest alligator ever known in Florida ; the
stomach contained the remains of a steam launch, a lot of old rail-
way iron, and a quantity of melted ice, proving that it existed during
the glacial epoch.”

CROCODILES.

TuE crocodile occurs in the rivers and bays of extreme South
Florida, but is seldom found far from salt water, rarely being found

CROCODILE.

in any of the fresh water streams. It may easily be distinguished
from the alligator by its narrow snout and the holes in the end of the

‘
~
;

ALLIGATORS AND CROCODILES. 71

upper jaw into which the two front teeth of the lower jaw enter.
As a rule, it lives in the bays and inland creeks which abound in the
southern portion of the State. Passing through some of these
creeks, where the banks are one or two feet above high water mark,
numbers of their well-worn slides may be seen, where they climb out
on the bank to sleep and sun themselves. It is claimed that the
crocodile cannot be hunted at night, but as I do not hunt in that
manner I have no personal knowledge of the subject. The hunters
claim that the crocodiles will not look at a light and that they cannot
** shine their eyes,” as they can those of an alligator, which is lucky
for the crocodiles, as they are not very numerous even now.
Crocodiles grow to a larger size than the alligator. At one time

HEAD OF CROCODILE.

they were numerous in Indian Creek, Biscayne Bay, and also in
Arch Creek in the same locality, but they are not as plenty now as
formerly. Further south, through Card Sound and below, is the
present home of the crocodile in any numbers, and the intricate net-
work of islands and lagoons makes it very difficult for any one
except a professional hunter to find them. The largest crocodile I
have ever killed measured thirteen feet eight inches in length. I

72 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

shot him in a small creek near Card Sound, in the spring of 1895,
and saw another at that time which I feel certain was at least two
feet longer than his companion.

An old hunter by the name of William Freeman told me he saw a
crocodile in a shallow creek near Card Sound, and, as he could see
the animal perfectly, tried to form an approximate idea of its length

by pacing the bank
a4 i | Zz st ap of the creek par-
fen ea 7 allel with the croc-

odile. He stated
that he believed
this crocodile
would measure at
least nineteen feet.
Such estimates are
of comparatively
little value except to show that there are larger crocodiles in South
Florida than have as yet been killed; and it is fair to assume that
there are crocodiles in Florida to-day which will measure seventeen
feet or more in length. The skin is not as dark as that of an alli-
gator, being slightly variegated, lighter and darker in places, and
the animal when asleep on the bank appears to be clay colored,
rather than black, as in the case of the alligator. The large one
which I killed looked ashy gray as he lay on the bank about fifty
yards from me.

CROCODILE.

TURKEYS.

Where turkeys are numerous a great many are trapped every
year by the native hunters by methods which do not redound to the
intelligence of the turkeys. A place is found where they are in the
habit of ‘‘ using,” as it is called. Corn is scattered about, and, if
that is eaten, more corn is placed there the next day. They are fed
in this manner for a week or more, until the turkeys become accus-
tomed to going there for food. Then small logs are laid, forming
a square box about six or eight inches in height ; possibly two
logs on each side, one above the other. In this is placed the corn,
and the turkeys enter it readily, as the obstruction is not sufficient to

_ make them fear any harm. The next night another log is added on
the four sides, raising the box gradually, perhaps a foot or so each
night, until the small logs form a cone-shaped box, narrowing at
the top, leaving an opening of perhaps a foot or eighteen inches by
which they can enter at the top. Corn is placed in the box and a
few kernels leading to it, as usual, and the turkeys, mounting the
last log, enter it and eat up the corn. The opening has now become
so narrow that, although a turkey can easily jump down through it
with closed wings, it is impossible to jump out of it with wings
spread. I have tried this method on one or two occasions, but with-
out success, although I have no doubt as to the truth of the state-
ment, which is vouched for by a number of old residents and
hunters.

Another style of trapis a log pen with a large tunnel under one
side. The turkeys follow the corn through the tunnel and do not
attempt to go back the same way, but run about the sides of the
pen, poking their heads through the openings between the logs.

Turkeys are still numerous in some parts of Florida, although
they have been practically exterminated in many localities where
they were once common. They are gregarious and usually prefer

74 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

a well-watered country, roosting in a swamp or on the borders of
some stream or pond. When a native hunter discovers a roost he
conceals himself near it at night and often kills nearly the entire
flock, shooting the under ones first, so that the dead bird in falling
will not alarm the others.

In the springtime the gobblers may be ‘ called” by imitating the
plaintive piping of the hen, and this is a common method of shoot-
ing them. Usually a quill is used to imitate the call, but some
hunters can produce it with their fingers and lips. The hunter con-
ceals. himself and calls softly until the gobbler approaches near
enough to be seen and killed. Occasionally a flock of turkeys will
be found feeding in the open ground, and they usually fly to some
heavy timber and perch themselves high up among the top branches,
affording a good chance for rifle practise. In following a turkey’s
trail the hunter must keep up with the dog and go as fast as the
nature of the ground will permit. A turkey will usually run for
some distance ahead of a dog before attempting to fly, and if the
hunter follows fast enough he will stand a good chance of getting
within shooting distance before he ‘‘ jumps.” I have seen many a
fine gobbler go soaring away two or three hundred yards ahead of
me which I probably could have billed had I kept within easy shoot-
ing distance of the hounds.

When the dog shows by his actions that the turkey is only a short
distance ahead that is the time that the hunter must use good
judgment.

Now the turkey must be ‘‘ flushed” or made to fly, but not until
within shooting distance. If not pushed the turkey will often run a
long distance ahead of the dog and perhaps escape in some impen-
etrable swamp. When the scent gets very warm let the dog hurry
a little, but not go so fast that the hunter cannot keep close to him.
The turkey, hearing the dog close behind and finding he cannot
escape by running, goes into the air with much heavy flapping of
wings, and if the hunter is sixty or seventy yards behind his dog he
is probably a hundred or more away from the turkey, and his
chances of bagging that gobbler are extremely slim.

TARPON FISHING.

Day was just breaking when Will and I pushed our boat from the
wharf. It was a typical Florida spring morning, with the usual
wgeous cloud effects so common in these latitudes; the whole
stern sky was banked with crimson clouds shading softly into the
yale blue higher up where the cloud banks suddenly ceased. Gradu-
ally the changing colors paled and paled, fading into dull gray and
white as the sun rose higher and showed his fiery edge over the tops
the low mangroves on the key opposite. The bay was as smooth
a pond; the water being scarcely rippled by the light breeze
hich bore to us the faint chattering and whistling of a flock of
ackbirds on the keys opposite, and we could distinctly hear the
voices of two men in a boat far over near the other shore, a mile or
more away. :
We passed several low oyster bars, which are usually covered at
high tide, and just beyond one of these Will stopped rowing and,
nodding his head towards the reef, said: ‘* Do you see the deep
‘water just to the south of that bar? That is where I saw several
tarpon yesterday — and there goes one now.”
_ I looked quickly in the direction he was pointing and caught a
“momentary glimpse of a large fin cutting the mirror-like surface of
the water; a dull gleam, and then all was quiet save for the gradually
widening ripples which marked the spot where the great fish had
risen.
— * Quick,” cried Will; ‘« throw well out ahead of that ripple and if
he takes it give him plenty of time before you strike.”
| _ Swinging the heavy rod backwards, I made a strong cast and the
line, weighted with half of a mullet, ran freely from the reel. It was
| good throw and the piece of fish struck the water not twenty feet
from the spot where the tarpon had risen. Loosening the line and
seeing that it ran freely under the leather thumb check, I waited.

76 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Will cut up small pieces of mullet and threw them over the water in
different directions, while I anxiously watched the line. Five min-
utes passed, ten minutes — suddenly my line began to run from the
reel with a strong, steady movement.

‘¢ Steady,” cried Will; ‘* give him time to get the bait down his
throat. Don’t strike too quick. Now give it to him. Mow!
Now!”

Holding the rod firmly with both hands, I checked the reel and
struck hard, so hard that the stout rod bent with the strain, and

TARPON.

instantly, with a tremendous rush, a huge silver, gleaming monster
flung himself completely out of the water, shaking his head
savagely. Down he came in a splash of white foam, and it required
no warning cry from Will to make me brace myself for the rush

TARPON FISHING. 77

which we knew would come. The stout rod bent like a reed, and
the carefully tested line sung from the reel in spite of the strong
friction of the leather check pressed firmly against it; but the strain
was too great to last, and the line ran out slower and slower and
presently the reel ceased to turn; but with a strong, steady pull the
great fish moved steadily on, towing our boat. rapidly. behind him.

TARPON.

Suddenly the bent rod straightened with a spring. It needed no cry
from Will to tell me the fish had doubled and was headed towards
us. I heard him grunt as he threw-.his weight on the oars, and,
holding my rod firmly, the butt well braced, I awaited the coming
strain. Almost instantly it came. Again that stout old rod bent
like a bow and the reel hummed, and again, shaking his head
savagely, the tarpon threw himself fully two feet above the water.

78 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Never shall I forget the scene which followed. Never, if I catch a
thousand of his kind, do I expect to see a more magnificent fight for
freedom than that grand fish made in his struggles to rid himself of
the barb within his jaws. Once, twice, four times he cast his whole
length into the air in his mad struggles. The water foamed
and boiled as he fell and sank, to almost immediately reappear,
hurling himself high into the air, shaking his head as a dog shakes
a rat, his blood-red gills showing in striking contrast to his gleaming
silver body. As he sank for the fifth time the strain on the line
ceased ; turning the reel, there was no resistance, and I heard a sigh
from Will.

‘* He’s off; it can’t be helped; but wasn’t he a dandy? ”

I said nothing, for I was sadly disappointed. To have had a fine
tarpon hooked for fifteen minutes, and then to lose him was dis-

THE LEAP OF THE TARPON.

couraging ; but, as Will said, it could not be helped, and the only
thing to do was to try for another. So, rowing back to our original
position, we baited the hook with a fresh and enticing bait, and set-
tled down quietly to wait.

sell

TARPON FISHING. 79

__ Perhaps twenty minutes had passed when again something took
the bait and moved slowly away with it. I struck hard, and as I
did so a huge tarpon hurled himself twice out of the water not
_twenty yards from the boat, and immediately started off across the
bay. Holding the rod high up, I gave it all the strain I dared; but
despite it all, the splendid
fish towed us fully half a mile
before showing any signs of
fatigue. Slowly and gently
reeled’ him in,” as the
_ strain relaxed, until we could
_ see him not more than ten
feet from us. Gradually I
drew him nearer and nearer,
while Will leaned over the
_ side of the boat, holding in
his hand a huge gaff, which,
the next moment, was fast-.
ened in the side of the tarpon. eae
_ A short struggle and a large specimen of the most magnificent game
fish in the world lay on the bottom of the boat, glittering brilliantly
_ in the sunlight, one sparkle of silver, blue, and gold.
As I wished to preserve the skin and the day was warm, Will
advised returning home at once; so we turned the boat and rowed
back, having had sport enough for one day. Although larger fish
are often caught, my first tarpon proved a good one, measuring six
feet one inch in length, and weighing 120% pounds.

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA.

To those who do not desire to rough it, but wish to have an
occasional outing with the gun and dog, Florida offers the rather
unusual combination of very good sport in the immediate vicinity
of comfortable hotels.

From Jacksonville it is but a short distance to the mouth of the
St. John’s River; and in the vicinity of Pilot Town, and Mayport,

A ** POINT’? ON QUAIL.

and about Fort George Islands, fair bird shooting may be had at the
right season. Plover and yellow-legs abound during the migrations,
and,in the old days Talbot Island was an especially good place for
curlew. With good dogs and a guide who knows the country, fair
bags of quail and snipe may be made within easy driving distance
of either Jacksonville or St. Augustine. A few bears and deer still
linger in the swamps between Jacksonville and Pilot Town, but for

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 81

this kind of shooting one
should go farther South
into a more unsettled
country.

Quail are abundant
throughout Florida. The
best quail shooting which
I have ever enjoyed I
had at what is known as
Dago Prairie, about fif-
teen miles from Enter-
prise, on the St. John’s
River. Enterprise at one
time was noted for its
quail-shooting. On one occasion, using three dogs, I found fourteen
coveys, and killed eighty-two birds with a twenty-gauge gun, reach-
ing the hotel before dark. This occurred several years ago, and
probably better sport may now be had in the flat woods west of Lake
Worth or south of Tampa. I merely mention Lake Worth and Tampa
as there are good hotels at both places, but as far as the quail shoot-
ing is concerned it may be had almost everywhere in South Florida.

TOM

ROBIN AND PRINCE ‘* POINTING ’’ QUAIL.

82 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Dogs are absolutely essential to successful quail hunting. Of
course, while driving through the woods, if a flock is ‘‘ flushed” a
few may be killed by kicking about in the bushes where they are
seen to alight, but I personally am not partial to this method of
quail hunting, as I am always afraid that I might kick a rattlesnake
instead of a quail. It is well to take a good dog with you from the
North, as well-trained dogs are very scarce in Florida. A fast dog
that ranges well is the kind most adapted to quail hunting in Florida,
which is usually done from wagons or on horseback. When a
wagon is used it is driven slowly through the ‘ flat woods ” until
the dogs, who cover the ground
well and ‘‘ range wide,” as it is
called, find a covey of birds.
Then the hunter. leaves the
wagon, shoots what he can out
of that covey, and drives on to
seek for another.

In the old days Sanford was
not in existence, and a little town
called Mellonville (located a
short distance south of the pres-
ent site of Sanford) was the only town on the west side of the lake.
A line of steamers was then running from Enterprise up the St. John’s
River, passing through Lake Jessop and Lake Harney to Salt Lake
and part of the time beyond that as far as Lake Poinset, but the line
was discontinued years ago.

Quail and snipe are still abundant along the shores of the upper
St. John’s in favorable localities, and in past years alligators were
numerous, but these last have nearly all been killed off. Of course
a few are left, but they are very shy, and a large one is of rare occur-
rence.

Deep Creek, which was at one time a famous turkey country, joins
the St. John’s River near where it enters Lake Harney, directly
opposite what is known as Cook’s Ferry.

The bass fishing near Lake Harney and on Lake Jessop has

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 83

always been excellent, and is probably so still, although the shad
fishers, who of late years have been using a seine near Lake Mun-
roe, have injured the fishing to some extent. Bass have been taken
from Lake Jessop which weighed over thirteen pounds, and there is
a record of one being caught in a small lake in Northern Florida
which weighed nineteen pounds. Of course these are the Large-
mouthed Black Bass, and not its Northern congener, the small-mouthed
species.

The St. John’s River is usually navigable as far as Salt Lake, but
above that it is often choked with floating water plants. Occasion-
ally a small boat can go nearly to Lake Washington, but beyond

ROBIN AND PRINCE.

Lake Poinset it is difficult to force a passage through the water
plants, which are so rarely disturbed that they grow in a mass very
difficult to penetrate.

Above Lake Jessop, on the prairies bordering the river, snipe
shooting is particularly good at some seasons, and all through the
country between St. John’s River and the Indian River quail and
snipe are abundant in the season.. A few ducks may nearly always

84 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

be found along the St. John’s River and in and about the small lakes
which abound in the interior. ;

Following down the coast from Jacksonville, we come to the well-
known shooting grounds near Oak Hill, although, as I have re-
marked before, any one desiring to simply hunt quail and snipe may
get fair sport at almost any of the small towns on the line of the
road.

At Oak Hill there is a small hotel kept by Frank Sams, who is
also the proprietor of the hotel at New Smyrna. Oak Hill is situated
at the head of the Indian River,
and fine duck shooting may be
had there at times. Deer may
also be killed in this vicinity,
although they are not as plenty
as formerly. There are parts of
the old Turnbull Swamp where
turkeys are still common enough,
but difficult to get at, and one or
more bears are usually killed by
hunters from Oak Hill in and
about the swamp during the season.

The country below Oak Hill on the east coast is the property of
the Canaveral Shooting Club and is not open to the public. Ducks
are numerous, as bears were also at one time, but I have assisted
in reducing their number considerably in that locality.

From Titusville southward there are many places on the Indian
River where good duck shooting may be had. In the vicinity of
the Ten Thousand Islands the duck shooting is sometimes very
good.

At one time ducks came in great numbers to pass the winter on
the east coast of Florida, attracted there by an abundance of their
favorite food. A bag of one hundred birds in a day’s shooting over
decoys or ‘* stools ” was not uncommon. I must plead guilty to hav-
ing done this myself on one or two occasions, but none of the birds
were wasted, and I am glad to say that I have many times killed

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 85

twenty-five or thirty ducks in a couple of hours and stopped shooting
when I could easily have killed many more than one hundred had I
desired to do so. Early in the season, when the ducks first arrive,
immense numbers are killed by the ‘‘ pot hunters,” who use heavy
guns and shoot into the flocks when bunched together in the water.
Of course such continual slaughter must necessarily reduce the

DUCK SHOOTING WITH DECOYS.

number of ducks which annually visit Florida, and already it is evi-
dent that their numbers are materially lessened, although they still
return, each year, in vast numbers. At some of the small Indian
River towns it was by no means unusual to see large flocks of ducks
*¢ bedded” within a’short distance of a wharf, where shooting was
prohibited. They soon learned that they were safe there and paid
no attention whatever to the people who stood and watched them

86 HUNTING AND FISHING

A BIG BAG.

IN FLORIDA.

from the shore within easy
shooting distance. But those
same ducks, when out on the
river, would not allow a boat
to approach within gunshot
of them.

The most common species
of duck on the Indian River
is the Bluebill or Blackhead,
but ‘‘ there are others.” The
Widgeon and Pintail are
abundant, and the Shoveller,
Blue and Green-wing Teal,
Ringneck, and Ruddy Duck
are also common. Gadwells

and Black Ducks (both Northern and Florida) are not uncommon in
places, while various other species occur more or less commonly,
according to the severity of the Northern winter.

WILD DUCKS.

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 87

Along the beach between Indian River and the ocean is a par-
ticularly fine hunting ground for bears. They are common in
many localities, but trained dogs are required to hunt them suc-
cessfully.

A few deer also occur in that country, but for deer it would be
better to go into the interior, and one can nearly always get a guide
at any of the smaller towns. Ten miles from the north fork of the
St. Lucie River was at one time a particularly noted hunting
ground, and during my first visit to that locality game was very
plenty. It was at St. Lucie in 1885 that I had my first experience
with what is known in Florida as a shooting match, where the prize

WILD DUCKS.

is a bull or cow, which is rounded up and driven in from the ‘* bush ”
for the occasion. ‘* Alligator” Jim Russell was a_ particularly
noted character at this time, and was also considered a very good
shot. He and the Payne boys and two or three others, whose
names I have unfortunately forgotten, took part in this contest.
Each contestant paid a dollar to the owner of the animal and was
allowed five chances. The target was a piece of bark fastened to

_atree, about one hundred yards distant.

We first competed for choice of the ‘*‘ hind quarters,” each man
shooting once and the one hitting nearest the center of .the bull’s
eye being adjudged the winner. We then tried again for the re-
maining hind quarter, and again for the choice of the fore quarters,

88 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

and so on, the last and fifth prize being the hide and tallow. ‘+ Al-
ligator ” Jim Russell was the life of the occasion, discoursing upon
the great numbers of enormous alligators he had killed and the
wonderful shooting he had done; but on this occasion his wonted
skill failed him, and the writer succeeded in winning three of the
four quarters, so that our boat
had fresh ‘‘ beef” (forgive
me, thou shades of Chicago
bovines,) for several days in
consequence.

There is at times very good
fishing at Indian Inlet, which
is nearly opposite Fort Cap-
ron, and the long, narrow,
sandy peninsula which separ-
ates the Indian River and the
ocean is covered with pal-—
metto scrub and _ scattered
hummocks in which small
game (and large, also, for
that matter) is abundant in
places, but of course one
must know the country to
have good sport.

Turkeys are not found on
the peninsula, but bears, deer,
and an occasional panther
may be killed by those who
‘¢ know how” and are willing
to work. Small game, such as wildcats, coons, and opossum,
are very numerous. I do not, as a rule, allow my young
hounds to run wildcats, but occasionally, when other game
was scarce, I have put the older dogs on the track of a cat to give
them arun. Cats have a habit of running in-a circle, going over
the same trail again and again, unless they are hard pushed. Some-

WILD CAT CLIMBING A TREE.

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA, 89

times they run
straight for a long
distance and then
take to a tree. At
other times, espe-
cially in South Flor-
ida, they often do not
attempt to climba
tree at all, and I have
killed a number of
cats on the ground
where the dogs had
run them into a thick
place, sometimes di-
rectly at the foot of a
large tree, when they

have made no attempt
to climb it. On one or
two occasions my large
bear dog, Tiger, has
caught a cat on the
ground and. killed it
alone, usually getting
somewhat scratched in
the encounter, but none
of the other dogs have
cared to attempt this
feat. On one occasion
I heard the dogs com-
ing towards me, as I
stood in a small, sandy
opening, and obtained
a rather crude photo-
graph of a wildcat with

WILD CAT.

go HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

AFTER A WILD CAT.

‘not quick enough. I
have seen good-sized
coons run up a small
bush when _ closely
pressed and no large
trees were handy. On
one occasion the bush
was not high enough
to be out of reach of
the dogs, and they soon
had him down. An-
other time the dogs
discovered two coons
in a small open prairie,
and for a few moments
they had a lively time,
as a full-grown coon
knows how to bite and
is a good fighter.

the dogs in full chase as
she passed me in the open.

Coons are very num-
erous, but usually only
wander about at night, al-
though I have occasionally
seen them on the edge of
the mangrove swamps in
the daytime. Young dogs
often find them while hunt-
ing for other game. A
coon will climb a tree
when he has a chance, if
he hears the dogs near
him; but sometimes he is

LARGE WILD CAT.

HUNTING

Opossums are common
almost everywhere, but
they are rarely seen, being
nocturnal in their habits,
although I have occasion-
ally found one in the
woods in the daytime.
They move away very
slowly, and if touched
will curl themselves into
a ball and play dead.
They are rather ugly little
beasts, however, and can
bite viciously if one is care-
less enough to give them

GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. gi

RACCOON,

a chance, although they may be held up by the tail and will keep
perfectly still, ‘‘ playing possum,” as the old saying is. Opossums

RACCOON.

are a nuisance to any one who
desires to catch specimens of
the smaller Florida rodents,
as they are always getting into
the traps.

Following the Indian River
through the Narrows, we
reach Jupiter Inlet, noted as a
fishing resort, and then a few
minutes by train brings us to
Lake Worth, known to the
Indians by the name of Hypo-
luxo.

At Palm Beach the fisher-
man may obtain the finest
kind of sport, together with
the comforts of a good hotel.
At the Hotel Royal Poinciana

92 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

boats and men may
be obtained by those
desiring either fresh
or salt water fishing.
The sport, especially
for Kingfish, can
hardly be excelled,
as catches number-
ing as high as 120
fish or more have
been taken by one
boat ina day. Va-
rious other kinds of
salt water fish are caught in great numbers, including Bluefish,
Spanish Mackerel, Sea-bass, and at times the huge Jew-fish.
For Black Bass fishing the fresh water lake west of Lake Worth
is of easy access, as a shell road has been built directly to it.

South and west of Palm
Beach lies a hunting country
‘‘par excellence.” Beyond
the lake, in the country west
of Palm Beach, from Jupiter
Creek (Loxahatchee) south-
ward, game is still abundant.

From Lantana, on Lake
Worth, one may drive on the
country road (which extends
to Biscayne Bay) south to
Hillsboro River, a distance of
about twenty miles, and find
good deer shooting in that
vicinity. If one desires a
camping trip along the Ever-
glades, he should leave the
county road about half way to

AN UNFAIR FIGHT.

OPOSSUM.

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 93

the Hillsboro River, at a place opposite the government life-saving
station. There is an old pump in the road at this place, and Robert
Osceola used to camp there a few days every spring while deer
hunting. Leaving the road and riding southwest some five miles,
one passes between the upper and lower chain of lakes, and this
crossing is the only one suitable for wagons for a distance of thirty
miles. The swampy lakes are connected by a little creek called
Little Fish Crossing. From this point it is less than a mile to
the old government trail which runs north, crossing Jupiter Creek
(Loxahatchee), and
south until it joins
the county road,
about two miles
north of Cypress
Creek. Old marks
of the ax ‘‘ blazes”

a "4 may still be seen on
7 the trees, and occa-
De hig EULESS) | sionall n

OT HOA NY. > SA Be ABO

track where some
hunter or cattle-
driver has followed
the old trail. Sand-
hill Cranes, turkeys,
; and quail are abun-
dant throughout this country; but bears are rare and panthers
keep themselves to the edge of the Everglades in the heavy
timber. Parties desiring to hunt this country would do well to have
their wagons meet them on the old government trail west of Lake
Worth. They could then hunt the country south, coming out on
the county road near Cypress Creek. There is only one bad
crossing, and that is at the head of the south fork of the Hillsboro
River. The country to the west of the old trail is ‘‘ flat woods ” and
hummocks, interspersed with cypress ponds, which become more
plentiful as we near the Everglades. Many of these ponds are not

i= Pe
(LE A

* Sp Seaman ppp PvIiI tT”

eee eat

A GREAT DAY FOR KINGFISH,.

94 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

‘‘ boggy,” and may be .crossed anywhere on horseback ; but others
are not to be trusted. Any pond may be safely crossed in which
the low bush grows which, as Jack Davis describes it, ‘‘ favors a
small pine.” South from Hillsboro, a distance of about twelve
miles, we cross Cypress Creek, at the head of which is an old
Indian Camp owned by Osceola, where the Indians build their

THORNTON’S CAMP, HILLSBORO RIVER.

canoes, the cypress trees in that vicinity being particularly large
and fine. Cypress Creek is noted for the abundance of turkeys in
that vicinity, and alligators are still numerous in its waters, which
may be accounted for by the fact that it is not navigable for boats,
being shallow and filled with logs. It also has the reputation of

:
aa
4
*
:

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 95

being a particularly good location for large rattlesnakes. At times
panthers are common here. I have seen the tracks of three panthers
made the same night near Cypress Creek bridge; two of the ani-
mals crossed the bridge and followed the sandy road for some
distance.

From Cypress Creek to Middle River is about four miles. Middle

THE OLD PUMP.

River joins Snook Creek about a mile to the east of the county
road, and both empty into what is now called New River Sound.
From Middle River to Snook Creek is about one mile by the

96 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

county road. The fishing in Snook Creek is very fine at times, as
both Black Bass and various salt water species (Snapper, Cavalier,
etc.,) are numerous. Three miles south from Snook Creek by the
county road we reach New River, where one finds a comfortable
camp owned by Mr. Frank Stranahan, and usually passengers
bound for Biscayne Bay stop over night at this point. The canal
has lately been completed as far as New River, and the railroad will

THE EDGE OF THE EVERGLADES.

next year be extended to Biscayne Bay. At present a stage ride
from Lantana to Lemon City, Biscayne Bay, occupies nearly two
days. When the railroad is finished the trip may be made in two
hours. These improvements, which will make the country so very
easy of access, will have a decided influence on the hunting and
fishing.

New River (New-la-pee) flows east and enters into New River

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 97

Sound, which, in turn, opens into the ocean five miles farther to the
south. New River is very deep in places and is one of the best
localities on the coast for manatee. It is the favorite hunting-
ground of the Indians when they desire to kill one of those ani-

JOHN DAVIS.

mals. Several of: the Indians have permanent camps on New
River. Tom Tiger, Robert Osceola, Jumper, Old Tom, Old
Charlie, and Tom-a-luske all have camps there. In the upper

98 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

north fork of the river fine bass fishing may be had, and there are
usually a few ducks about, but there is very little else in the way
of game, deer and turkey being scarce in that vicinity.

Continuing south from New River, again following the county
road, a drive of thirteen or fourteen miles takes one to Snake
Creek (Car-chee-pap-kee) ; then comes Arch Creek (Char-to-fee-na),

A SAND HILL CRANE’S NEST.

and next Little River (She-la-coo-ho-co-chee), which is about
twenty-four miles from New River, and about a mile from Lemon
City on Biscayne Bay.

There is very little game in this country except quail (and ducks
in some places), which are common enough, but the country is not

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 99

one which gives promise of much sport in: the way of large game

After passing Snake Creek the country becomes high and rocky,

and one begins to notice a variety of butterflies which have not

been seen before, and in the hummocks through which the road
passes pretty yellow and white tree-snails are not uncommon.

The country between Lemon City and Miami is high and rocky.

Quail are abundant, and ducks are numerous at certain seasons in

DEAD SHARK, NEW RIVER INLET.

Dumbfoundland Bay and Indian Creek. This creek was at one
time a favorite resort for crocodiles; but they have lately become
shy and are rarely seen.

IOO HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

The Miami River, which runs from the Everglades into Biscayne
Bay, is probably the only river in Florida which has a fall or rapid
worthy of the name. For about a half a mile at the head of this
stream there is considerable fall. At this point the river is shallow
and not navigable for boats, and has a very rapid current, in
which ‘* Cavalia” (Caroux hippus) are numerous and may be taken
with an artificial trout fly. At the head of the Miami River the
great Everglade swamp opens out before one like an immense,
shallow, grassy lake. Throughout the Everglades numerous islands,
large and small, are scattered about. Some of them are several
miles in extent and
very fertile, but, luck-
ily for the Indians,
they are very difficult
of access, which has
prevented them from
being occupied by
white men up to the
present time. In the
fall the water in the
Everglades is high
enough to allow the
use of canoes and small
boats, but in winter and spring it gradually lowers until boat navi-
gation is difficult, and in many places impossible, and the character
of the ground is such as to render it useless to attempt any other
means of locomotion.

The Indians go from the east coast to the Big Cypress Swamp
during the summer and fall in their canoes. This can only be
done when the water is high and under the guidance of a person
who thoroughly knows the country.

From New River to Biscayne Bay and the southern end of Florida
there are several good men, able to guide a hunting party, and who
know the country well. Among them may be mentioned William
Freeman, who lives at Little River, about a mile from Lemon City.

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. IOI

For the country between New River and St. Lucie River, and, in
fact, including the Biscayne Bay country, there is no better guide than
John Davis, who has lived almost his entire life in the woods, and is

THE MIAMI RIVER RAPIDS.

one of the few real hunters and trappers who could be called a thor-
ough woodsman. Where the county road crosses the Hillsboro
River, the only settler in that vicinity, by name William Thornton, is

I02 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

sometimes willing to act as guide for parties who desire deer hunting,
and last year he had one or two fair dogs.
While on the subject of hunters I cannot leave out my old hunting

MIAMI RIVER.

companion, Mr. O. A. Quartermain, who is, in my opinion, the best
hunter on the Indian River, and his record of fifty-one deer and
fourteen bears in one season is a hard one to beat. Of late years

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 103

he has done but little hunting, and at present has charge of the life-

saving station at Chester Shoals, Fla.

On the keys about Biscayne Bay beach birds are numerous, and
4

JOHN DAVIS,

2S ee Or ere

quail are abundant in the pine woods. The birds are plenty enough,
aq but the rocky country is a bad one for dogs. The fishing in Bis-
cayne Bay, or in its vicinity, is particularly fine, and just outside the

104 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

bay among the reefs is probably one of the finest fishing grounds on
the Florida coast. Tarpon are abundant in the bay and run up
many of the rivers. Of course the Tarpon is the king of all Florida
game fishes, and phlegmatic indeed must be the man who does not
feel a thrill of excitement when the. magnificent fish hurls himself
completely out of the water again and again, shaking his head
savagely in his frantic efforts to dislodge the hook. May and June
are the best months for Tarpon fishing ; but good sport may be had in
April and sometimes in March, and a few fish are taken during the
winter months by patient and enthusiastic fishermen. Tarpon are
numerous in Biscayne Bay, and very fine fishing may sometimes be
had at Steamboat Creek at the south end of the bay. :

All kinds of fishing may be had in and about Biscayne Bay.
Kingfish are unusually abundant ; perhaps the very best place for King-
fish is near the black and white channel buoy off Cape Florida. For
those who enjoy bottom fishing and want large fish and plenty of
them, I would advise them to try in the vicinity of Alligator Reef
Lighthouse, where the fishing is most excellent.

Crocodiles are to be found in Biscayne Bay, but in most cases
they are very shy and difficult to shoot. Continuing farther south
from Card Sound into Barnes Sound, crocodiles are more numerous
and not nearly so shy. From Cutler going south, the road, if it may
be called one, is very bad, and one enters a country which is rarely
visited by a white man. It is rocky pine land, bordered by a low
and wide marshy prairie and occasional mangrove swamps. In
these prairies deer dre abundant and very tame. They are rarely
hunted, as but few white men have ever been in this country, and it
is too far away from any settlement for an Indian to carry out game
to sell.

Deer are numerous and wolves commence to appear in some places
east of Whitewater Bay. A few panthers wander about this country,
but they are not numerous. In some of the ponds and marshes alli-
gators are plentiful, and many of them are large, as that country is
seldom visited by hunters. Deer and bears were at one time com-
mon on the larger keys, but there are few left on them now.

: mes ‘
Et. aiid >

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 105

Southeast of Cape Sable is about the only place where flamingoes
still exist in Florida in any numbers, and a colony or two of them
breed there every year. This is a country very difficult of access,
and the birds are very shy and are rarely seen, much less killed.

On the Bahama Islands, only a short distance from the Florida
coast, there are colonies of thousands of flamingoes, and their eggs
are gathered in numbers by the inhabitants. It is probable that the
Florida contingent is occasionally reenforced from the Bahamas,
although the bird was at one time undoubtedly common in Florida.
Water-birds are abundant about some of the keys. <A few pelicans,
cormorants, gulls, and man-o’-war hawks may be seen almost any
time, as well as ducks and an occasional heron.

In some places on the west coast game is very abundant. We
hear of the abundance of game in the country about the Steinhatchee
River; but I know but little of it personally and cannot vouch for the
truth of the statement. From Cedar Keys southward there is plenty
of game, but the country is rather difficult of access. Near such
well-known places as Homosassa and Tarpon Springs deer and
turkeys are numerous in some localities ; but they do not come out of
the woods and wait to be killed, and one has to have a guide who
knows the country, as well as properly trained dogs, to insure a suc-
cessful trip.

Tampa has grown to the dignity of a city, and naturally large
game has been driven back, but fine bags of quail and snipe are
made by the guests of the hotel, and guides and dogs are furnished
those desiring to indulge in the sport. Arthur Schleman, who is
at present located at Tampa, owns several dogs and knows the
country about Tampa.

There are several small rivers near Tampa, and fair shooting may
sometimes be had. An occasional deer and turkey still linger.
Alligators are also to be found, but, as in other portions of Florida
which have become settled, they are not numerous and are very shy.
Good fishing may be had within a short distance of Tampa by those
who care for it. For Tarpon, one must go farther south to get good
sport, and it should be borne in mind that nowhere is the Tarpon

106 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

fishing really good until quite late in the season. Occasionally good-
sized fish are caught during the winter months, but it is well known
that Tarpon do not bite well until the warm weather sets in. A good
many Tarpon have been caught near the mouth of the Caloosahatchee
River and above Fort Myers near Beautiful Island.
I have enjoyed good fishing at Captiva Pass opposite Pine Island ;
here Tarpon are sometimes very numerous and other kinds of fish are
plentiful enough. South of Ostero Bay at Big Hickory Pass is one
of the best fishing grounds in Florida, and several men have had
excellent fly fishing at this point. Mr. George Mixter, of Boston,
Mass., was kind enough to give me the following list of the species
he has taken at Hickory Pass, using a large silver-bodied fly : —
Sea-trout (Cynoscian maculata).
Redfish or Channel Bass (.Sczoena ocellata ).
Cavalia (Caroux hippus ).
Rovallier or Snook (Antropomus undecimalis ).
Spanish Mackerel (8. maculatus ).

And I believe he has since taken others.

The huge Jew-fish (Hpenephelus nigritus) is common about
Ostero Bay, and in Surveyor’s Creek Tarpon are numerous in their
season.

At Big Shark River Mr. Mixter tells me he succeeded in making
a very small Tarpon take a fly. He used a large silver-bodied speci-
men and fished during the flood tide, which at that point runs like a
mill-race.

For those who are devotees of the harpoon, the great Devil-fish
(Manta btrostris) and the various sharks will afford them all the
sport in that line they desire.

Probably the finest food fish in southern waters is the Pompano
( Trachinatus ornatus), which is very numerous along the coast of
Florida, but which is rarely taken with hook and line except at Key
West, where, curiously enough, it is often taken in that manner.

Some years ago the writer made a trip from Fort Myers up the
Caloosahatchee River into Lake Okeechobee, Fish-eating Creek,
and other places, and then continued on up the Kissimmee River to

HUNTING GROUNDS OF FLORIDA. 107

the town of that name. The country in the vicinity of Lake
Okeechobee was at that time filled with game.

Deer, turkeys, cranes, and alligators were very numerous. Quail
and snipe were to be had in numbers, although they were as not
plenty as they are sometimes farther north, in the country about
Lake Kissimmee. Ducks were not numerous and were confined to
two or three species.

Southeast from Fort Myers about seventy-five miles, lies the Big
Cypress Swamp, which is the hunting ground of the Seminole
Indians. This is to-day one of the best localities in Florida for all
kinds of large game. The advent of the white man is not looked
upon with favor by the Indians, and they do not encourage his
presence in what they believe to be their country. The best way to
get to the Big Cypress hunting grounds is by wagon from Fort
Myers; but I am informed it may also be reached by going up the
Chockeloskee River as far as it is navigable by boat and then mak-
ing a ‘‘carry” of about three miles. I have never made this trip
and cannot vouch for the accuracy of the information.

After the middle of April the mosquitoes become very troublesome

on the Keys; but the weather is most delightful, and the fishing im-

proves with the warm weather. Northwestern Florida is rarely
visited by the sportsman, but those who have hunted in that portion
of the State claim that game is abundant. Ducks and beach birds
are at times plenty in the vicinity of St. Joseph’s Bay and also about
Santa Rosa Island and Pensacola Bay. Turkeys and deer are
claimed to be very abundant in some of the counties to the north of
Cedar Keys, but they are rarely visited and there is little accommo-
dation for the traveler. At present such fine shooting may be had
in places easy of access that there is little to tempt one to explore
these out-of-the-way localities; but a day will come when North-
western Florida will have to be sought by the hunter who desires
good sport.

In the vicinity of Tallahassee the country and climate is delight-
ful, and fair quail shooting is to be had within driving distance of
the city. Farther to the west, however, deer and turkeys are

eys
common,

n, W

+ BEE
eee ce

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA.

Famity FELID/®. Tue Cats.

FELIS CONCOLOR FLORIDANA Sudsp. Nov.
Panther, Cougar, Puma.

Nor uncommon in the unsettled portions of the State.

The Florida Panther is apparently separable, at least, subspe-
_ cifically, from its more Northern congener, which it resembles in
general marking, but differs in being more rufous or reddish brown
in color, and in having the legs relatively longer and the feet de-—
_ cidedly smaller.

A most noticeable character in the Florida animal is the small
size of the foot. Several Northern examples which I have exam-
ined have the foot at least four inches broad, while those of a
_ Florida specimen of equal size would not exceed three inches.

A female which I killed in April, 1895, measured about seven
feet from nose to tip of tail, and her forefoot measured two and
seven eighths inches in width. In a Colorado specimen of about the

same length the foot measured four and one eighth inches at the

widest part, and another specimen three and seven eighths inches. *
. It is rare that a Florida Panther exceeds nine feet in length,
although it is claimed that they occasionally grow larger. Both
Maynard and Chapman mention hearing of a large, spotted, long-
tailed cat, and suggest the possibility that it might be Fed/es onca.
I have never met with an Indian who had seen or heard of such an
animal. There is, however, an animal still living (or he was in
April, 1895,) in Florida, whose tracks are at least a third larger
than any Florida Panther I have ever seen.

However, if he is ever killed (and I hope to sometime see his

* A young Panther cub is tawny brown in color, marked with numerous large, irregular, brownish-black spots.
The cry of the cub resembles the screech of a Parrot, but it often utters a soft whistle. The cry of the old
Panther somewhat resembles the screech of a Parrot, but is much louder.

109

IIo HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

snarling face over the sights of my rifle), he will probably prove to
be a very old and unusually large male Felis concolor floridana.

Panthers kill many small mammals, as well as deer, when they
can get them. They are very fond of hogs, and a good place to
look for a panther is in the vicinity of some drove of semi-wild pigs.
When once a panther becomes a ‘‘ pig eater” he prefers pig to any
other kind of food.

LYNX RUFUS FLORIDANUS (2a/).
Florida Wildcat.

Common. Some specimens are large and spotted on the sides
and flanks, and are more rufous than Northern specimens. I have
killed one old male which measured forty inches from tip of nose to
tail, and stood twenty inches high at the shoulder.

Famity CANID/EZ. THE WOLVES AND FOXES.

CANIS LUPUS GRISEO-ALBUS (Zinz.).
Wolf.

Still not uncommon in some localities. In the vicinity of the
Big Cypress and in extreme Southern Florida wolves _ still
occur in some numbers. A wolf was seen in the spring of 1895
near Little Fish Crossing, southwest of Lake Worth. They are
usually black, although examples have been killed which were
brown, shading into gray on the belly and breast.

I have heard of gray wolves in Florida, but have never seen
one. Robert Osceola killed a female with two cubs near the Big
Cypress inthe spring of 1894. He captured the little ones alive
and took them to his camp; but they would not eat, and, after
keeping them a day or two, he killed them. The mother and both
pups were black.

UROCYON CINEREO — ARGENTATUS (J/i//.).

Gray Fox.
Common. Florida foxes are somewhat smaller and grayer on the
back than those found farther north.

se |

Te ee ee ee ee ee ee a OS ee ee Ll ene

——

Ne Oy ee Te

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. IIt

Famity MUSTELIDAZ. THE WEASELS, SKUNKS, ETC.

PUTORIUS ERMINA PENINSUL4® (2i/oads.).
Florida Weasel.
As far as I am aware but two examples of this interesting mam-
mal have as yet been recorded from Florida, one from Pasco
County (the type), and the other from Gainesville, by Mr. Chapman.

LUTREOLA VISON (Schreder).
Mink.

Probably not uncommon, but rarely seen. I have specimens
taken near St. Augustine, and Mr. Maynard gives it as ‘‘ very
plenty on the coast near Cedar Keys,” and states that he saw one
at Blue Springs.

LUTRA CANADENSIS (Schreder).
Otter.

Still very common in some localities, but becoming less so every

year.
MEPHITIS MEPHITICA JZaird.

Common Skunk.
This skunk seems not to be uncommon in Northern Florida ; it
is rare as far south as Titusville, and the Indians claim it does not
occur south of New River. Some specimens are comparatively
small and nearly black.

SPILOGALE PUTORIUS (Zinz.).
Little Striped Skunk.

This pretty little species, which is about the size of a kitten, is
very common in some localities on the east coast. I found it numer-
ous near Cape Canaveral, and specimens have been taken as far
south as New River. Dr. Merriam records a specimen from Kis-
simmee Prairie (N. A. Fauna, p. 7, No. 9, 1890).

This little skunk is very fond of mice, and it is often tamed and
kept about houses for the purpose of clearing them of those ani-
mals. In some instances the scent glands are removed, but not
always. I am told they soon become very gentle and tame.

I1I2 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Famity PROCYONID. THE Raccoons.

PROCYON LOTOR (Zinz.).
Raccoon.
Common. Somewhat smaller and more rusty in color than North-
ern specimens.
- In Florida the raccoon likes swampy places ; it is usually com-
mon near the seacoast, as it is particularly partial to crabs and fish.

Famity URSID. Tue Bears.

URSUS AMERICANUS aii.
Black Bear.

Most common near the seacoast in unsettled portions of the
State. The Florida bear equals and perhaps exceeds in size its
Northern relative.

Bears are claimed to have been killed which weighed over six
hundred pounds, and I, myself, have shot specimens which would
weigh in the vicinity of five hundred pounds. One large male
which I did not weigh measured fifty-six inches (tight measure)
around the belly, and six feet two and one half inches from nose
to tail. This bear was fat and in good condition. One of the claws
measured three and one fourth inches, measured on the curve.

The Black Bear hibernates in Florida, as it does elsewhere in the
United States, usually remaining hidden from about Christmas time
until March. The flesh of a young one is palatable, and the oil is
much esteemed by the Indians and hunters, and is used for cooking
purposes as a substitute for lard.

Late in the fall bears seek localities where berries of the ‘‘ scrub”
palmetto are abundant, in some seasons. When berries are abund-
ant the bears become very fat. After their winter sleep they
wander about a good deal, feeding upon the crabs which they find
on the beach and the buds of the mangrove trees, as well as the
cabbage of the palmetto palm, and at this season a pig is a welcome
addition to their larder. Still later in the season, during June,
they hunt the beaches for turtles’ eggs, of which they are very fond.

° eee.

———T eee ee ee

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. ITs

Famity CERVIDZ. THE DEER.

CARIACUS VIRGINIANUS (JSodd.).
Deer.

Deer are still very numerous in the less settled portions of the
State. The Florida deer is a small Southern race of the Virginia
species. A full-grown buck will often weigh less than one hundred
pounds, and I have killed yearling bucks which weighed under

ninety pounds.

Of course it is not unusual to find considerably larger specimens,
but the average Florida deer is small. I have been told that deer
have been killed in Northern Florida which would weigh nearly
two hundred pounds. The bucks drop their horns about the first of
February.

Famity MANATID-X. THe MANATEEsS.

TRICHECHUS LATIROSTRIS Har/an.
Manatee.

The manatee occurs commonly in many of the bays and rivers
of South Florida. It lives equally in salt and fresh water, going
into the rivers to feed on the grass, and, as some authors claim, the
leaves of the mangrove trees.

They were at one time abundant in the St. Lucie River, and a
number have been captured alive in that river in rope-nets made for
the purpose.

Although of such great size, it is a gentle, harmless animal, very
timid and shy. The flesh is much esteemed by the Indians, and
also by some of the white inhabitants. The Indians kill a number
of them each year in the vicinity of New River. They harpoon
them in the rivers or in the ocean near the mouth of some river.

The Florida manatee is very similar to that found in Central
or South America, and perhaps should not be recognized as a dis-
tinct species.

The manatee grows to an immense size, sometimes attaining a
length (it is claimed) of fifteen feet. The skin is very coarse

II4 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

and thick and is covered with scattered coarse hairs. When not
frightened or suspicious it generally rises to the surface to breathe
at intervals of from one to two and a half minutes.

FamMILy VESPERTILIONIDA. Tue Bats.

ARTIBEUS CARPOLEGUS Gosse.
Leaf-Nosed Bat.

A. carpolegus Chapman. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., p. 342,
1894.

A. perspicillatus H. Allen. Bats N. A., p. 93, 1893.

Nose with leaflike membrane; general color ashy brown; expanse
of wings, 12.50 to 14.

A single specimen recorded from Key West by Mr. C. J. May-
nard (Bull. Essex Inst., Salem, Mass., Oct., 1872, p. 144,
Vol. IV., No. 10), as Artibeus perspicillatus. According to Mr. F. M.
Chapman (Bull. American Mus. Nat. Hist., p. 341, 1894), the
Cuban species is Artebeus carpolegus, Gosse, and not perspic-
ellatus, differing from that species in the absence of conspicuous
facial streaks, and in its smaller size.

CORYNORHINUS MACROTIS (Le Conte).
Big-Eared Bat.

Ears very large; fur soft, dark at base with lighter tips; under
parts of body pale; expanse of wings, 9.50 to 10.75.

Recorded by Dr. Harrison Allen (Bats N. A., p. 58), from
Florida, a single specimen having been taken at Micanopy by

Dr. Bean.
VESPERTILIO GRYPHUS. / Cuwv.
Little Brown Bat.

Small; general color brown, showing a tinge of olive in some
lights; the basal portion of the fur (concealed) is dark plumbeous ;

face whiskered; expanse of wing, 8 to 9.25.
Recorded by Dr. Rhoads (Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., 1894, )
from Tarpon Springs, ‘‘ Several specimens taken.”

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. II5

ADELONYCTERIS FUSCUS (Beauv.).
Brown Bat.
General color light brown, paler below; expanse of wings, 9.50
to 10.50. Common in Florida.

VESPERUGO CAROLINENSIS (Geof).
Carolina Bat.
A small, pale-brown bat; expanse of wings, 8 tog. Probably
common. Recorded from the Suwanee River by Mr. Chapman,
and from Tarpon Springs by Dr. Rhoads.

NYCTICEJUS HUMERALIS a
Twilight Bat.
Dark brown above, paler below; expanse of wings, 7.75 to 9.50.
Recorded by Mr. Rhoads from Tarpon Springs, and by Dr.
H. Allen.

DASYPTERUS INTERMEDIUS ezers.
Fulyous Bat.
A rather large bat, pale tawny brown in color; expanse of wings,
12 to 13.
Recorded by Dr. Harrison Allen (Bats N. A., p. 138, 1893),
from Davenport, Florida.

ATALAPHA BOREALIS (JZi//.).
Red Bat.

A. noveboracensis auct.
_A. borealis Mull. Rhoads, Proc. Phil. Acad. Sci., p. 156, 1894.
Fur pale yellowish at base, tipped with reddish brown, and
ashy ears not edged with black; expanse of wings, 10.75 to 11.75.
Numerous specimens of bats identified as this species have been
taken in Florida. Mr. F. M. Chapman records it from Gainesville
and the Suwanee River, and Dr. Rhoads obtained specimens from
Tarpon Springs which he identified as Atalapha borealis pfeiffert
(Gundlach) ; but the Cuban form is brighter colored than the true

borealis, while Florida specimens are darker.

116 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

The Florida form of this bat seems to be entitled to at least sub-
specific recognition, and several writers have already stated this to
be the case, but no one has yet taken the trouble to christen it.

ATALAPHA CINEREA (Seauv.).
Hoary Bat.
Fur dark brown tipped with silvery gray; ears marked with
black; expanse of wings, 12.50 to 14.50. .
Recorded by Mr. Chapman from Gainesville (Bull. American
Mus., Nat. Hist., p. 343, 1894).

NYCTINOMUS BRASILIENSIS Js. Geoff.
House Bat.
General color, pale seal brown; expanse of wings, 10 to II.
Common in some localities.

Famity SORICIDZ. THE SHREwS.
BLARINA BREVICAUDA CAROLINENSIS (ach.).
Southern [ole Shrew.
No ears visible; tail short; general color slaty gray, often silvery
on under parts. Length of body without tail about 3.50; tail about.75.
A specimen was taken by Mr. C. J. Maynard, near Miami, and
another by Mr. Chapman at Gainesville.

BLARINA CINEREA (Sach).
Cinereus Mole Shrew.
Small; no ears visible; color slaty gray, slightly paler on under
parts. Length of body, without tail, about 2.50; tail about 1.
Mr. Chapman states (Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., p. 342, 1894),
a badly preserved specimen in alcohol from Indian River, is pro-
visionally referred by Professor Baird to this species.

BLARINA EXILIPES Saird.
Small-Footed Mole Shrew.
Small; general color dark slaty gray, under parts nearly the same
as above. Length of body alone, 3.50 to 3.75; tail alone, about .75.

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. 117

First recorded from Gainesville, Florida, by Dr. C. Hart Mer-
riam, from a specimen taken from the stomach of a barn owl.
Specimens have since been taken near Enterprise, by- Mr. Brownell.

Famity TALPIDA. Tue Moves.

SCALOPS AQUATICUS AUSTRALIS Chapman.
Florida Mole.

No ears visible; feet very large; fur pale seal brown with a sil-
very gloss; tail very short. Length of body, without tail, about
5-50; tail, .50 to .70.

Common in many localities. Mr. F. W. True does not consider
Scalaps parvus, Rhoads, as separable from this species (Chap-
man, Bull. U. S. Nat. Mus., p. 343, 1894).

amity LEPORIDAE. THE HARES AND RaABBITs.

LEPUS PALUSTRIS Bach,
Marsh Rabbit.
Abundant in Northern Florida. It may easily be distinguished
from the Highland rabbits by its small feet, and dark brown color,
and dark tazl, showing no white.

LEPUS PALUSTRIS PALUDICOLA (J/iller and Bangs).
Southern [Marsh Rabbit.

This is the marsh rabbit of Middle and Southern Florida. It is
similar to the preceding species, but is somewhat smaller and darker
in color, and is now generally recognized as a subspecies.

LEPUS SYLVATICUS Bach.
Gray Rabbit. Highland Rabbit.
Common in Northern and parts of Middle Florida. It may easily
be distinguished from the swamp species by the wz¢e on the tail,
its longer legs, and larger feet.

118 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

LEPUS SYLVATICUS FLORIDANUS A/Z/en.
Southern Gray Rabbit.
Very similar to the preceding species, but darker and somewhat
smaller. It is common throughout Middle and Southern Florida.

Famity GEOMYID. Tue PoucHED GOPHERS.

GEOMYS TUZA (Ord.).
Florida Gopher. Salamander.

Very common, usually inhabiting the pine woods, where it lives
in holes. The natives call the land turtle (Gopherus polyphemus,
Daud.), a ‘* gopher,” and this is often confusing, as both animals
live in holes and often in the same localities.

Famity MURID. MIcE anp Rats.

NEOTOMA FLORIDANA Say. and Aud. =
Wood Rat.

A large, big-eared rat, grayish brown above and whitish beneath ;
feet white; length, including tail, 14 to 15.50; tail, 6 to 7.25.

Rather common in some localities, and is supposed to be gener-
ally distributed through the State. I have seen many nests of this
species and trapped a number of specimens near Cape Canaveral.
It prefers the heavily wooded hummocks.

MUS RATTUS Zinn.
Black Rat.

Above, dark slaty black; under parts dark gray. Size very
variable; an average specimen will measure from 13 to 15 inches
in length, including tail.

The Black Rat is not common. Specimens have been taken near
Titusville, and Mr. Chapman records it from Enterprise (four spec-
imens taken by Mr. Brownell). This species was introduced into

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. II1g

America about the year 1554, but it has been nearly exterminated
by the Norway Rat.

MUS ALEXANDRINUS Geof.
White Bellied Roof Rat.
A large rat, rather grayer in color than decumanus and whiter on
the under parts. Zhe tazl zs usually longer than the body. This
is the common rat usually to be found in houses and stables.

MUS DECUMANUS /Padias.
Norway Rat.

A very large rat, brown above, grayish white beneath ; ¢az/ rarely
as long as the body. Claimed to have been introduced into America
about 1775. The only Florida specimens I have seen of this species
were taken in Jacksonville. It is probably confined to the larger
towns and cities and not found elsewhere.

- SIGMODON HISPIDUS Say. and Ord.
. Cotton Rat.
Fur, dark brown, tipped with tawny; under parts grayish white ;
length, including tail, about 9.50; tail, about 3.50.
Abundant in Northern Florida, being replaced in Middle and
Southern Florida by the next.

SIGMODON HISPIDUS LITTORALIS Chapman.
South Florida Cotton Rat.
Similar to the preceding, but decidedly darker; length, includ-
ing tail, 9.50; tail, 3.50.
Common in Middle and South Florida.

ORYZOlMYS PALUSTRIS NATATOR Chapman.
Florida [Marsh Rat.
Rather large; above brown; dusky white beneath; length, in-
cluding tail, about 12; tail, 5.50.
Recorded from Gainesville, Enterprise, Micco, Smyrna, and
Flamingo.

I20 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

MUS MUSCULUS Zinn.
House Mouse.
Small; brown above; pale brown beneath; length, including
tail, about 5 to 6; tail, 2.50 to 3.
Abundant throughout the State in the vicinity of human hab-
itation.
REITHRODONTOMYS HUSMILIS Aud. and Bach.
Harvest louse.
A small, dark brown mouse; length, including tail, about 5 to
5-753 tail, 2.25 to 2.60.
This species is apparently not common. It has been taken at
Enterprise and Tarpon Springs.

SITOPMYS NIVEIVENTRIS (Chapman).
Ground Mouse.

Above, pale brownish drab; whitish beneath; others, yellowish
brown above; whitish beneath; length, including tail, about 5.30;
tail, 1.75 to 2. .

Common in many parts of Florida; abundant near the coast.

SITOMYS NIVEIVENTRIS SUBGRISEUS Chapman.
Old Field Mouse.
Darker than zzverventris ; brown above, under parts white;
length, including tail, about 5.20; tail, 1.60 to I.go.
According to Mr. Chapman, it inhabits the interior, being re-
placed in the sandy lands, bordering the ocean, by the preceding
species. It frequents old fields.

SITOMYS FLORIDANUS (Chapman).
Big-Eared Deer [Mouse.
Hesperomys floridanus Chapman. Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist.,
TLS, stORy5 po 37.
Hesperomys macropus Merriam. N. A. Fauna, No. 4, 1890,
p- 53-

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. I2a

Sitomys floridanus Chapman. Bull. Am. Mus. .Nat. Hist., VI.,
1894, p. 336.

Above, brownish gray, shading into fawn color on the sides ;
underparts white; length, including tail, about 7.50; tail, 3 to 3.50.

Probably not uncommon, although but few specimens have been
taken.

It has been recorded from Enterprise, Gainesville, Citronelle, and
at one or two points on the Indian River and at Lake Worth, the
latter being Dr. Merriam’s type of .S. macropus.

SITOMYS AMERICANUS GOSSYPINUS (Ze Conte).

Deer Mouse.

Brown above, whitish beneath; length, including tail, about 7;
tail, 2.50 to 3.25.

Abundant frequently in the hummocks.

Mr. Chapman (Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., VI., 1894, p. 336),
considers Sztomys megacephalus, Rhoads. (C. F. Rhoads, Proc.
Acad. Nat. Sci., Phila., 1894, p. 254) as inseparable from this
form, stating that specimens in his series ‘* practically match them
both in size and color.”

SITOMYS AUREOLUS (Wagn.).
Golden Mouse.
General color, golden brown; the underparts are white; length,
including tail, 5.50 to 6.25; tail, 2.25 to 2.90.
Specimens have been taken by Mr. J. Robinson, at Gaines-
ville, and by Mr. C. J. Maynard at Dummits Grove, on the Mos-
quito Lagoon.

ARVICOLA PINETORUM (Ze Conte).
Le Conte’s Pine Mouse.
Ears nearly concealed; upper parts reddish brown; under parts
slaty gray; tail very short; length, including tail, 4 to 4.75; tail
about .75.

I22 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

Audubon. records this species from Florida (Quad. N. A., p.
219, Vol. II.)

NEOFIBER ALLENI. 77we.
Allen’s [Muskrat. Round-Tailed [uskrat.

Fur long and soft; above, glossy, dark brown; under parts
white, showing a slight brownish tinge; length, including tail, 13
to 15; tail, 4.50 to 5.50.

This species is abundant on the peninsular east of the Indian
River, and is apparently not uncommon in many portions of the
State. It has been recorded from Gainesville and Enterprise in the
interior. I found it common and captured a dozen specimens near
the head of the Banana River.

The common muskrat (Fiber zzbethicus) and the beaver (Castor
canadensis), may occur in Florida, but have not as yet been taken in
the State. (Chapman; Bull. Am. Mus. Nat. Hist., VI., 1894,

P- 334-)

Famity SCIURIDA. THe SqQuirrReEts.

SCIUROPTERUS VOLUCELLA (Gme/.).
Flying Squirrel.
Common in suitable localities. I have several specimens taken
near Jacksonville, and it has been taken at Enterprise and Tarpon
Springs. Length, including tail, 9 to 10; tail, 4.50 to 5. |

SCIURUS CAROLINENSIS Gmed.
Southern Gray Squirrel. ‘‘ Cat Squirrel, ”’
Smaller and more rufous than the Northern gray squirrel ; length,
including tail, 14 to 15; tail, 9 to 10.
Common.
SCIURUS NIGER Zinn,
Southern Fox Squirrel.
Common in some localities; frequents pine woods. It varies
much in color, some specimens being almost entirely black. Asa

THE MAMMALS OF FLORIDA. I23

rule, the head is black, the back gray, and the under parts tawny ;
length, including tail, 21 to 24; tail, 14 to 15.

Famity DIDELPHIDE. THE OpossuMs.

DIDELPHIS MARSUPIALIS VIRGINIANA (Kerr).
Opossum.

OPOSSUM.

Abundant throughout the State. It is nocturnal in its habits, and,
therefore, although so common is rarely seen.

The Porpoise (Phocena phocena L.) and the Dolphin ( Zurszops
tursio £.) occur on the coast of Florida, and the former occasion-
ally enters the rivers.

REMARKS ON SOME OF THE FLORIDA
SNAKES.

Tue snakes of Florida may be divided into two classes, the
venomous and the non-venomous. Out of the large number of
species known to occur in the State but four may be classed as
venomous, and two of these are so small as to be harmless, unless
handled or touched with the hand or bare foot; a third, the cotton-
mouth moccasin, is by no means a common species; and the fourth,
the well-known diamond rattlesnake, although exceedingly venom-
ous, is luckily not aggressive, and unless irritated or touched, will
rarely attempt to strike.

All venomous snakes have grooved or perforated fangs in the
upper jaw; in some permanently fixed, in others erectile, but always
showing the aperture through which the poison is ejected. Non-
venomous species have fixed teeth in the upper jaw in which there
is no groove or poison duct.

The venomous snakes which are found in Florida are as follows : -—

CROTALUS ADAIMANTEUS Beauv.
Diamond Rattlesnake.

Unlike the cotton-mouth moccasin the diamond rattlesnake is not
naturally vicious or aggressive, preferring rather to avoid man than
to attack him. It is a very dangerous snake, however, as its ‘* bite ”
nearly always proves fatal. Alcohol and stimulants will often pre-
vent any serious results from the the bite of Western and Northern
rattlesnakes (C. horrzdus), but these remedies have not proved
efficacious in cases where persons have been bitten by the Florida
species.

In very large snakes the fangs are often three quarters of an
inch, or more, in length, and they strike with much force. When

124

REMARKS ON SOME FLORIDA SNAKES. 125

in the act of striking the snake coils and usually rattles, but it does
not always do so.

Its manner of striking is described by S. Weir Mitchell (who has
made a most careful study of the species), as follows : —

‘¢' The snake throws himself into a spiral, and about one third of
his length, carrying the head, rises from the coil, and stands up-

RATTLESNAKE ABOUT TO STRIKE.

right; then his head and neck are thrown far back, his mouth is
opened wide, the fangs held firmly erect. The blow is a stab,
and is given by throwing the head forward, while the half coils
below it are straightened out. As the fangs enter, the tem-
poral muscles close the lower jaw on the 'part struck and force
the sharp fangs deeper in. At this moment the poison duct is
opened by the relaxation of the muscle which surrounds it, and
the same muscle which shuts the jaw squeezes the poison gland
and drives the venom through the duct and hollow fang into the
bitten part.”

126 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

There is no known antidote for crotaline poison (as the venom
of the rattlesnake is called).

Dr. L. Stejneger, of Washington, once suggested to me that a
solution of cromic acid or bichloride of gold, injected hypodermi-
cally about the wound, might prove efficacious.

As crotaline poison is claimed to act directly on the medulla, it
would seem necessary to stimulate the heart’s action with the hope
of tiding over the paralyzing effects of the poison.* This might,

RATTLESNAKE PREPARING TO STRIKE,

perhaps, be accomplished by the use of strychnia, to be given, I
should say, in doses of one fiftieth of a grain, repeated every half
hour, if there are symptoms of heart failure. Of course, it goes
without saying that every possible effort should be made to procure
the services of a regular physician.

If a person should be bitten by a rattlesnake the wound should
at once be opened to produce a free flow of blood. Ligatures

* Dr. Calméite, a French physician, claims to have attained good results by the use of hypochloride of calcium.
He also claims to have immunized animals by minimal subcutaneous inoculations of attenuated poison and
states that the serum of such vaccinated animals possessed strong specific antidotal properties against the
poison with which they had been vaccinated. — Annales de l’Iust. Pasteur, May, 1894, and April, 1895.

REMARKS ON SOME FLORIDA SNAKES. 127

should be applied above and below the wound to retard, as much as
possible, the poison entering the circulation. A strong solution of
permanganate of potash * might be injected deeply into the wounds
made by the fangs. If that could not be obtained, carbolic acid
might answer, the object being to cauterize the wound and prevent,
if possible, the absorption of the poison.

A good, stiff dose of brandy or whisky should be given, with a
view to counteracting the ill effects on the nervous system produced
by fear. Strychnia ‘might
then be given internally,
and the heart action watched
closely. If the patient can
be kept alive and conscious
for twenty-four hours there
is a good chance of recovery.

In India the English gov-
ernmentnot long ago offered
a large sum of money as a
reward for the discovery of
an antidote for cobra poison.
A French physician suc-
ceeded in saving a certain
percentage of small mam-
mals which had been bitten by a cobra, by hypodermic injections of
pure chloride of lime (chloride of calcium), one part of the chloride
to eleven parts of water, and also made use of stimulants. How
this treatment would succeed in the case of a rattlesnake is ques-
tionable.

Contrary to the general idea, the Indians have no antidote for
rattlesnake poison. I have talked with many, and they assure me
that if an Indian is bitten by a rattlesnake (which they rarely ever
are) **he no get well.”

Some very large rattlesnakes have been killed in Florida. I have

* Hypochloride of calcium would be indicated in preference to permanganate of potash, if it could be used
at once.

128 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

seen several over six feet in length, and one which measured seven
feet one inch. I have been told that a snake was killed on Anastasia
Island which measured nearly nine feet in length.

SISTRURUS [ILIARIUS (Zinn).
Ground Rattlesnake.
A small snake, rather common, but not often seen, as it keeps
well concealed in thick places and under old logs.
It is poisonous but its fangs are small. Ordinary antiseptic treat-

ment of the wound and a rather free use of stimulants usually —

prevents serious results.

This snake rarely exceeds two anda half to three ee in length.
The back is marked with black and red and it has a button on the
end of the tail, but no rattles.

Although this little rattlesnake is common in Florida very few of
them are seen during the cold months.

AGKISTRODON PISCIVORUS (LZinn.).
Moccasin, Stump=Tail Moccasin, Cotton-llouth Moccasin.

This is a water snake, fully as venomous as the rattlesnake, and»

much more vicious. They are not common, however, and are rarely
seen. I have killed specimens over five feet in length; but it is
somewhat unusual for them to attain that size. One killed at the
mouth of Moccasin Creek, Banana River, measured five feet two
inches. It is a dark-colored snake, the under parts blotched with
black and yellow. Young specimens are brighter colored and some-
what resemble in color A. contortrix, but the copperhead has not as
yet been recorded from Florida.

Like most of the venomous snakes, it has fangs, but no teeth on the
upper jaw. Its poison is similar in its action to crotaline, and should
be treated in a similar manner. If bitten by a poisonous snake, the
wound should receive immediate attention. Ligatures applied (for
a time) above and below the bite, cutting the wound to make it bleed
freely, and the rather free use of whisky may perhaps be recom-
mended while awaiting the advice of some regular physician.

REMARKS ON SOME FLORIDA SNAKES. 129

The small chance of seeing a poisonous snake, much less being
bitten by one, is, perhaps, well illustrated by the fact that such
hunters as Quartermain and Davis care nothing for snakes, although
they have hunted for many years in Florida, often with bare feet, in
the most ‘‘ snaky localities.”

It should be remembered that there are several species of so-called
water snakes, which are often seen on the banks of streams and
ponds, none of which are poisonous. They are blackish and dark
brown generally, with indications of marking on the back.

These harmless varieties are the kinds which are usually pointed
out by the natives as the dreaded Water Moccasin.

ELAPS FULVIUS (Zinn.).
Harlequin Snake,

This pretty little species is conspicuous on account of its transverse

bands of yellow, red, and black. It is a small snake, and for many
years was’ considered harmless. It is poisonous, however, and has
two very small perforated fangs; but, unlike other venomous snakes,
it has both fangs and teeth on the upper jaw.
_ There are several cases on record where persons have died from
the effects of a bite from this snake, and there are also numerous
instances where people have been bitten and suffered no ill effects
whatever. Still, we know that in some cases the bite of the Harle-
quin Snake /as proved serious; so it is just as well not to treat the
little fellow in too familiar a manner.

There are three species in Florida which resemble each other so
much that any one but a specialist would probably consider them to
be identical. They are very different, however, belonging to differ-
ent genera; although their general color and appearance is somewhat
similar, the colors are differently arranged. The present one, which
is the only venomous one of the group, has a roundish head, with
the eyes on top, while the others have the eye on the side of the head.
One of them has a very pointed head.

The non-venomous ones are as follows. They have teeth on both
jaws, but no fangs.

130 HUNTING AND FISHING IN FLORIDA.

OSCEOLA ELAPSOIDEA. (/o/brook).
CEMOPHORA COCCINEA. (Slumenbach).

This last is the fellow with the pointed head, and is not uncommon
in some parts of Florida.

Dr. Einar Lonneberg says,* ‘‘ The bites of harmless snakes may
become dangerous from several reasons.

(1) Common blood poisoning that can happen with any wound.
(2) Poisoning with the poison from the skin of toads, in cases of
bite by species feeding on those animals, as I have often observed
that it is possible for some of the secretions from the poison glands in
the skin of the toad to remain in the mouth of the snake among the
teeth, especially the larger posterior maxillary teeth which inflict the
wound. (3) Fear that the snake is poisonous and consequent self-
suggestion.”

We now come to the non-poisonous snakes which occur in Florida,
which number between twenty-five and thirty species. Many of
them are small and rarely seen, and the inhabitants have no local
name for them. Others, however, are common and are well known
to the natives, who call them by various names in different localities.
The following are a few of the better-known varieties : — ‘

NATRIX FASCIATA (Zizz.).
Water Moccasin.
This is the common blackish-looking species so often observed
along the banks of the rivers and ponds. It is perfectly harmless,
but is often pointed out to tourists as the deadly ‘* Cotton-Mouth.”

NATRIX TAXISPILOTA (/Zo/érook).

A large Water Moccasin, common about the lakes and rivers,
usually seen on floating branches of vegetation. It is not venomous.

ABASTOR ERYTHROGRAMMUS (Daudin).
Thunder Snake.
A harmless variety, apparently not common in Southern Florida.

* Proceedings of U. S. Nat. Mus., Vol. XVII., p. 239 , 1894-

REMARKS ON SOME FLORIDA SNAKES. I31

LAMPROPELTIS GETULUS (Zzuz.).
King Snake.
Harmless. It varies in coloration, sometimes showing black and
yellow bands. It is claimed that it kills the Rattlesnake, and is
sometimes called the Rattlesnake Pilot.

BASCANIUI CONSTRICTOR (Zinzn.).
Black Snake.

The Black Snake is very common throughout Florida. It is not
poisonous and has no fangs, but it has a fine set of teeth and is
not good tempered. It is black, with the under parts greenish, and
the throat dull white.

BASCANIUM FLAGELLUM (Siaw).
Coach Whip, Chicken Snake.
Common, but not so numerous as the preceding species.

CALLOPELTIS GUTTATUS Zinn.
Chicken Snake.
Harmless. This and another species, C. guadrivittatus, are both
called «* Chicken Snakes ”.by the inhabitants.

SPILOTES CORAIS COUPERII Holbrook.
Gopher Snake.
A very large, harmless snake. It is claimed that specimens have
been killed which measured over nine feet in length. It is black
above and plumbeous on the belly, showing yellow on the throat.

HETERODON PLATYRHINUS Za¢reid/e.
Hognose Snake, Spreading Adder, Spitting Adder.
A peculiar little snake, having a turned-up nose. It has the habit
of flattening its head and neck and hissing loudly when disturbed,
but it is not poisonous.

-~THAMNOPHIS SIRTALIS (Zinzn.).
Grass Snake, Garter Snake.
Common in damp ground. A non-poisonous snake, but one that
will bite readily if handled.

TO THE

INTRODUCTION TO BIRD KEY.

In preparing the present Key, I have striven to make it as simple
and non-technical as possible, my object being to enable any one
totally unfamiliar with birds to identify with comparative ease any
species of the Florida water birds. Let us assume, for example, that
a young man has Killed a duck and wishes to identify it; he turns
over a few pages of the Key until he finds a figure of a bird which
resembles his. He then measures his specimen and finds that the
length of his bird is 16 inches and the length of the wing is 7.40
inches. He finds that the ducks are divided into groups, and the
group to which his duck would seem to belong was the one com-
prising birds having a lobe or flap on the little hind toe, the belly
white, and which show more or less white or grayish white on the
head. In this group he finds there are eleven species, but only four
of them which approximate near enough in size to by any possibility
be his duck. These are the Ruddy Duck, the two Scaup Ducks,
and the Ring-necked Duck. Upon reading the description of these
birds he finds that, as his duck is not chestnut and the tail feathers
are not stiff and pointed, it cannot be the Ruddy Duck. Of-the three
remaining species two have the speculum white, the third has it gray.
As his duck has the speculum gray it must, therefore, be a female
Ring-necked Duck. To be absolutely positive of this he turns over
to the latter part of the Key as indicated by ‘* See page” so and so,
at the end of each species; he will then be able to read a full de-
scription of the bird and so remove any doubt as to the correct identi-
fication of the species.

All measurements of birds are given in inches and fractions of an
inch. The following diagrams will illustrate how a bird should be
measured, and the chart will be useful to the young student of
ornithology who may not be familiar with the technical terms used
in describing birds. The sexes are indicated by the signs of Mars
and Venus: the male, of course, being given that of Mars, ¢, and
the female ?.

135

MEASUREMENTS.

LENGTH. — Distance in a straight line from the end of the bill to the tip
of the longest tail feather. Occasionally the middle feathers are much
elongated, as in Phaethon and Stercorarius.

WING. — Distance from the carpal joint (bend of the wing) to the tip of
the longest primary.

TAIL. — Distance from the tip of the longest tail feather to its- base (the
point where it enters the body).

BILL. — The distance in a straight line from where the bill (upper mandible)
joins the skin of the forehead (A) to the tip (B). (There are a few ex-
ceptions to this rule, such as birds with frontal plate, etc. Some curved
bills are measured along the curve of the cu/men, but in cases of this kind
it should always be so stated.) Z

TARSUS. — Distance in front of the leg from what appears to be the knee
joint (end of tibia) to the root of the middle toe.

All measurements are given in inches and fractions of an inch.

Birds vary so much in size that the length of any one specimen cannot
be accepted as a standard for others of the same species. The length measure
is, nevertheless, of value to enable us to form an approximate idea of the size
of the bird; the length of the wing is much less variable and is an im-

portant aid to the identification of certain species.

136

Under. Primary Converts

Primaries

pee. i he
“~.Under Tail Coverts
= ~~~Crissum
—
Superciliary Stripe
Forehead
Upper Mandible SN ry s
Nostril
“Culmen ;_

Occiput
\---Ear Coverts (auriculars)

Lower Mindible :
Gape” Chin »
Cheek

Throat ~

---- Side of Neck

Interscapular Region

STugulum- cz" f We; git

Carpal Joint---

Breast.

Lesser Wing Coverts”
Middle Wing Coverts--~

Tertials

Upper Tail Coverts

Greater Coverts -- \ Tail Feathers

Secondaries ~~

—

Flanks- Tail Coverts

Thigh*\ / “SS
Primaries /
First Primary SN
Tarsus...-, Ay

Outer, Toe

Middle Toe... a =
Inner Toe’ 5

137

GLOSSARY.

Nearly all the terms used in describing a bird may be more easily
and clearly understood by examining the accompanying figure than from
a written description; a few, however, may, perhaps, require a word of
explanation.

MANDIBLES. — Some authors use the word maxi//a for the upper half of
the bill, and mandible for the lower. I prefer, however, to describe the
two halves of the bill as upper and lower mandible.

CULMEN. — The ridge of the upper mandible.

GONYS. — Lower outline (middle) of under mandible.

UNGUIS.— The nail on the end of the upper mandible ; very pronounced
in several families of water birds,-— Ducks, Pelicans, and Petrels.

AXILLARS or AXILLARY PLUMES. — Several elongated feathers at_
the junction of the wing and body (Lat. axz//a, the arm-pit). =

SPECULUM.— A wing band or patch (usually of a different color from the
rest of the wing) formed by the terminal portion of the secondaries; very
noticeable in the Ducks.

TARSUS. — Extends from the root of the toes to the end of the éibia (what
appears to be the bend of the leg or knee; but which is, in reality, the
heel joint).

SUPERCILIARY STRIPE. — Stripe over the eye.

138

;

pr 5

mh TY

TO THE

WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity PODICIPIDE. GREBEs:

“a ee

Colymbus auritus. Podilymbus podiceps. Podilymbus podiceps.

Length, 13.40; Wing, 5.40; Tarsus, 1.70; Bill, .oo. Colymbus auritus.
Horned Grebe. See page 185

Length, 13.50: Wing, 5; Tarsus, 1.45; Bill, .go. Podilymbus podiceps.
Pied-billed Grebe. See page 186

142 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

FamMiIty URINATORIDAE. Loons— DIvErs,

Urinator imber (foot ). Urinator lumme.
Length, 31; Wing, 14; Tarsus, 3.353 Bill, 2.75. Urinator imber.

Loon — Great Northern Diver.
See page 187

Length, 24; Wing, 10.75; Tarsus, 2.75; Bill, 2. Urinator lumme.
Red-throated Loon.
Red-throated Diver.
See page 188

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 143

Famity STERCORARIID/E. JAEGERsS.

Stercorarius parasiticus ( immature ).

Stercorarius parasiticus (foot ).

Central tail feathers elongated in the two following species :

Length, 17; Wing, 13; Tail (adult), about 8.40; Tail
(immature), about 6; Bill, 1.20. Stercorarius parasiticus.
, Parasitic Jaeger. See page 189
Length, 20.50; Wing, 12.25; Tail (adult), about 12.50;
immature, about 6; Bill, 1.10. Stercorarius longicaudus.
Long-tailed Jaeger. See page 190

144 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA,

FamiIty LARID/E. GuLits AND TERNS.

SuspraAMILy LARINZ. GuLtts.

nod
Larus argentatus smithsonianus. Larus atricilla.
Length, 29; Wing, 18; Tail, 8; Bill, 2.40. Larus marinus.
Great Black-backed Gull.
See page Ig1
Length, 24; Wing, 17.50 Tail, 7.50; Bill, 2.10. Larus argentatus smithsoni-

anus. -
American Herring Gull.

See page 192
Length, 18.40; Wing, 14; Tail, 6; Bill, about 1.65.

In summer, bill yellowish banded with black ;
in winter, tipped with dark brown. Larus delawarensis.
Ring-billed Gull. See page 192

Length, 16.50; Wing, 12.50; Tail, 5; Bill, about 1.75.
Adult — head and throat plumbeous in summer,
whitish in winter; bill reddish. Larus atricilla.

Laughing Gull. See page 193

Length, 13.50; Wing, 10.40; Tail, 4.15; Bill,
1.30. Adult in summer,— bill black ; head and
neck plumbeous ; feet orange red; in winter, bill
black; head and neck white; feet flesh color. Larus philadelphia.

Bonaparte’s Gull. See page 193

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 145

SuBFAMILY STERNINE. TERNs.

Sterna maxima.

Length, 21; Wing, 16; Tail, 6.10: Tarsus, 1.80 ;
Bill, 3. Bill deep red; primaries dark slate
color on inner webs.

Length, 19; Wing, 14; Tail, 7.10; Bill, 2.40. Bill
orange or yellow; back pearl gray; under parts
white.

Length, 17; Wing, 11.50; Tail, 7.20; Bill, 1.70. Bill
black; back and upper parts brownish black ;
under parts white.

Length, 15.50; Wing, 10.50; Tail, 5.60; Bill, 2.10.
Bill black tipped with yellow ; back pearl gray;
under parts white.

Length, 15; Wing, 10.30; Tail, 5.50; Bill, 1.45; Tar-
sus, .70 to .80. Adult in summer — Bill red tipped
with black; feet red ; under parts ashy. Adult

in winter — under parts white ; bill brownish black;

‘Outer web of outer tail feather darker than
inner web at all seasons.

Sterna fuliginosa,

Sterna tschegrava.
Caspian Tern. See page 194

Sterna maxima.
Royal Tern. See page 195

Sterna fuliginosa.
Sooty Tern. See page 198

Sterna sandvicensis acuflavida.
Cabot’s Tern. See page 195

Sterna hirundo.
Common Tern. See page 196

146 KEY TO THE WA'TER BIRDS

OF FLORIDA.

Sterna dougalli.

Length, 15; Wing, 10.25; Tail, 6.60; Bill, 1.50; Tar-
sus, .go. Adult in summer — bill dull orange red
tipped with black; feet orange red; under parts
white. Adult in winter—bill dark brown; feet
brown; a dusky black patch on sides of the
head inclosing eye; inner web of outer tail
feather darker than outer web inall plumages.

Length, 15; Wing, 7.75; Tail,7.50; Bill, 1.55; Tarsus,
85. Bill black, showing tinge of red at the base ;
tail white; whole of outer tail feather white ;
under parts white tinged with rose color; feet
red.

Length, 15; Wing, 10.30; Tail, 6; Bill, 1.60. Entire
plumage olive brown; top of head whitish.
Immature birds have the top of the head brownish.

Length, 14.50; Wing, 10; Tail, 6; Bill, 1.60.
Crown black ; forehead and line extending over
the eye white; mantle gray; under parts white ;
bill and feet black.

Sterna forsteri.
Forster’s Tern.

Sterna dougalli.
Roseate Tern.

Anous stolidus.
Noddy Tern.

Sterna anzthetus.

Bridled Tern.

See page 196

See page 197

See page 199

See page 198

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 147

Length, 14; Wing, 12; Tail, 5.50; Bill, 1.40; Tar-
sus, 1.30. Forehead not white; crown, includ-
ing forehead, black; upper parts pearl gray ; under
parts white; bill comparatively short and thick;
bill and feet black. Gelochelidon nilotica.
Gull-billed Tern. See page 194

Length, 9.50; Wing, 8.30; Tail, 3.60; Bill, 1.10;
Tarsus, .7o. Adult in summer — under parts black.
Adult in winter — under parts white; bill black ;

feet dusky brown. Hydrochelidon nigra surina-
mensis.
Black Tern. See page 199

Length, 9.25; Wing, 7; Tail, 3.50; Bill, 1.20; Tar-
sus, .65. Under parts white ; bill and feet yellow. sterna antillarum.

Least Tern. See page 197

FAMILY RHYNCHOPIDE. SKIMMERs.

Rhynchops nigra.

Length, 18 to 20; Wing, 15; Tail, 5.50; Bill (cul-
men), 2.70; Gonys, 4.25. Bill thin, knife-like,
lower mandible the longer, basal half of bill
vermilion red, blackish attip. General plumage
black, white beneath. Rhynchops nigra.
Black Skimmer. See page 200

148 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity DIOMEDEIDE. ALBatrRossgEs.

Diomedia exulans. (Very much reduced.)

Length, about 4 feet; extent of wings (spread), about
10 feet to 12 feet. General color yellowish white. Diomedea exulans.

Wandering Albatross.
See page 201

Famity PROCELLARIIDAZ. Futmars, SHEARWATERS,
AND PETRELS.

Puffinus auduboni.

Puffinus major. Puffinus major.

Length, 19.25; Wing, 12.50; Tail, 5.75 ; Bill, 2.40;
Tarsus, 2. Dark brown above, white beneath ;
crissum dark; under tail coverts gray. Puffinus major.
Greater Shearwater.
See page 201

ad galas
St

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. I49

Length, 11.50; Wing, 8; Bill, 1.20; Tarsus, 1.55.
Above brown; under parts white ; crissum brown
and white. Puffinus auduboni.
Audubon’s Shearwater.
See page 202

fEstrelata hasitata. Oceanites oceanicus.

Length, 16.50; Wing, 12; Bill, 1.35; Tarsus, 1.40.
Upper and under tail coverts white. /Estrelata hasitata.
Black-capped Petrel. See page 202
Length, 7; Wing, 5.75; Tail, 2.80; Tarsus, 1.30 ;
Bill, .50. General plumage sooty black ; white on
tail coverts. Oceanites oceanicus.
Wilson’s Petrel. See page 203
Length, $8; Wing, 6.25: Tail, 3.10 (above dusky);
Tarsus, 1.50. No white on nape; under parts
white. Cymodroma grallaria.
White-bellied Petrel.

See page 20

Famiry PHAETHONTID-®. Tropic Birps.

ios)

Phaéthon flavirostris. °

Length, including tail, 31.50; Wing, 11; Tail, 21;
Bill, 2. General color white; bill yellow; central
tail feather very long. Phaethon flavirostris.
Yellow-billed Tropic Bird,
See page 204

150 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity SULIDA. GANNETs.

Sula bassana.

Length, 386; Wing, 18.50; Tail, 9; Bill, 4.10.
Immature plumage mottled grayish brown and
white; head and neck white tinged with buff.

Length, 27; Wing, 15.50; Tail, 8; Bill, 4; Tarsus,
1.60. Head and upper parts sooty brown; bill
and feet pale yellow ; gular sack yellow.

Length, 27; Wing, 16; Tail, 7.70; Bill, 4; Tarsus,
1.85. Head, white; head whitish; gular sac
bluish ; feet reddish.

Length, 27; Wing, 15; Tail, 8; Tarsus, 2.10; Bill,
3.50. Head white tinged with buff; feet coral
red; gular sac dusky.

Sula sula.

Sula bassana.
Gannet.

Sula sula.
Common Booby.

Sula cyanops.
Blue-faced Booby.

Sula piscator.
Red-footed Booby.

See page 206

See page 205

See page 206

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. I51

Famity ANHINGIDE. DarTERs.

Anhinga anhinga.

Length, 33.50; Wing, 13.50; Tail, 10. Long,
snake-like neck; head and neck black in male,

brown in female. Anhinga anhinga.
Anhinga, Snake Bird, Water Tur-
key. See page 207

Famiry PHALACROCORACIDE. CORMORANTS.

Phalacrocorax dilophus floridanus.

Length, 36; Wing, 12; Tail, 5.75; Bill, 2.20. Tail
consists of 12 feathers, Phalacrocorax dilophus flori-
danus.
Florida Cormorant. See page 208

152 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity PELECANID/. Pericane

Pelecanus erythrorhynchus.

Length, 60; Wing, 24.50; Tarsus, 4.45; Bill, 12.
General plumage white ; tail feathers, 24; pouch
yellow. Pelecanus erythrorhynchus
American White Pelican.
See page 209
Length, 50; Wing, 20; ‘Tarsus, 2.90; Bill, 11.
Plumage not white. Pelecanus fuscus.
Brown Pelican. See page 210

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 153

FamiILty FREGATID. Man-o’-War Birps.

Fregata aquila,

Length, 42; Wing, 26; Tail, 16.50; Bill, 5. Upper
plumage black, tail forked, wings long. Fregata aquila.
Man-o’-War Bird. See page 211

154 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.
Famity ANATID4. Ducks, GEESE, AND SWANS.

SuspraAMity MERGINZE. MercGAnNsers, TooTu-BILLED Ducks.

Merganser americana.

(1) Head greenish or blackish; bill narrow, with tooth-like serrations.

Length, 26.50; Wing, 11 ; Tarsus, 2; Bill, 2.10. Un-’

der parts creamy white tinged with salmon color. lerganser americana.
American [lerganser (male).
Sheldrake. See page 212
Length, 23; Wing, 9; Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 2.30. Breast
brown streaked with black. Merganser serrator (male).
Red-breasted Merganser.
Sheldrake. See page 213

Head brownish or grayish; bill narrow, with tooth-like serrations.

Length, 24.50; Wing, 9.75; Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 2.
Distance from nostril to tip of bill less than
1.50. Merganser americana (female).
American [lerganser.
See page 212

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, I

Lophodytes cucullatus.

Length, 21; Wing, 8.80; Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 2.50.
Distance from nostril to tip of bill more than

1.50.

Length, 18.50; Wing, 7.70; Tarsus, 1.25;

1.50. Without crest.

Length, 18.50; Wing, 7.75; Tarsus, 1.30;

1.50. With small crest.

Bill,

or
Ut

Merganser serrator (female).
Red-breasted Merganser.
See page 213

Lophodytes cucullatus.
Hooded [lerganser (immature).
See page 214

Lophodytes cucullatus.
Hooded Merganser (female),
See page 214

(2) Head with black and white crest; bill narrow with tooth-like serrations.

Length, 19.50 ; Wing, 7.75; Tarsus, 1.30; Bill, 1.50.

Lophodytes cucullatus.
(adult male).
Hooded [lerganser. See page 214

56 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SuspramiLy ANATINZE. River Ducks.

Dafila acuta.

(1) Hind toe without membranous lobe or flap. Belly
white, sometimes faintly tinged with blackish or gray
on lower part. Length over 17.50; wing over 8.50,

Length, 28; Wing, 9.50; Tail, 7; Bill, 2. Head
brown; speculum green, edged with black and
white; middle tail feathers elongated.

Length, 22; Wing, 9.25; Tail, 3.50; Bill, 2. Head
brown; speculum brown and white; under wing
coverts dark.

Length, 23; Wing, 10.50; Bill, 2.20. Head greenish ;
speculum purplish, bordered with white and black ;
feet red.

Anas americana.

Dafila acuta (male).
Pintail.

See page 223

Dafila acuta (female).

Pintail.

See page 224

Anas boschas (male).

Mallard Duck.

See page 215

KEY TO THE

_ Length, 19.50; Wing,.10; Bill, 1,60. Head brownish,
streaked ; speculum white and brown; feet yellow-
ish; under wing coverts black.

Length, 19; Wing, 10; Bill, 1.55. Head- brownish

streaked; speculum white and gray; under wing

coverts white.

Length, 19; Wing, 10.50; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.40.
Head white and green, streaked and speckled with
black; speculum black and green; feet bluish.

Length, 18.50; Wing, 9.50; Bill, 1.40. Head green
and purple, showing white stripe; speculum blue,
tipped with black and white; feet yellow.

Length, 18; Wing, 9.30; Bill, 1.35. Head gray, show-
ing white stripe; feet yellow.

WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Anas strepera (male).
Gadwall. See page 218

Anas strepera (female).
Gadwall. See page 218

Anas americana.
Baldpate Widgeon. See page 219

Aix sponsa (male).
Summer Duck.

Wood Duck. See page 225

Aix sponsa (female).

Summer Duck.

Wood Duck. See page 225

(2) Hind toe without membranous lobe or flap.

Belly not white.
Length over 17.50; wing over 8.50.

Length, 22; Wing, 11.50; Bill, 2.10; Tarsus, 1.65.
Head brownish and buff; belly buff brown, mot-
tled; feet red; speculum purple, bordered with
white and black.

Length, 21; Wing, 10.75; Bill, 2.10; Tarsus, 1.75.
Head and neck brown streaked ; no black spot at
base of bill ; speculum purple, edged with black;
throat streaked.

Length, 20; Wing, 10.20; Bill, 2; Tarsus, 1.70. Simi-
lar to A. obscura, but paler; cheeks and throat
not streaked; bill yellowish olive; nail of bill
and spot at base black; speculum purple, edged
with black.

Anas boschas (female).
Mallard. See page 215

Anas obscura.
Black Duck.

Dusky Duck. See page 216

Anas fulvigula.
Florida Black Duck. See page 217

158 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Anas obscura.

Length, 20; Wing, 950; Bill, 2.70; Tarsus, 1.50.
Bill very much broadened; head dark bluish
green; feet orange red; speculum green, tipped
with white.

Length, 19.50; Wing, 9.50; Bill, 2.60; Tarsus, 1.50.
Head brown; general plumage mottled and
streaked brown and buff; bill-very broad; feet
orange red; speculum green, tipped with white.

Hind toe without membranous lobe or flap.

Length under 17.50; wing under 8,50.

Length, 16; Wing, 7.25; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.60. A
patch on the wing pale blue; head and neck
not chestnut; speculum green.

Spatula clypeata (male).

Spatula clypeata (male).
Shoveller, Broad-bill.

See page 222

Spatula clypeata (female).

Shoveller.

Anas discors.
Blue-winged Teal.

See page 223

See page 221

if EID te LW ee Or aT

| ere re,

PPS OA INP US RI

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORID 159

Anas discors (male). Anas carolinensis (male).

Length, 14.50: Wing, 7.20; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.50.
No blue patch on wing; speculum black, tipped
with white. Anas carolinensis.
Green-winged Teal. See page 220
Length, 16; Wing, 7.50: Bill, 1.75; Tarsus, 1.30. Head
and neck chestnut; a patch of blue on wing;
speculum green. Anas cyanoptera.
Cinnamon Teal. See page 221

SusBraAMILy FULIGINA. Sera Ducks.

(1) Hind toe with well-defined membranous
lobe or flap,

Belly white, sometimes grayish or blackish
on lower part; no white on head.

Leneth, 21.50; Wing,9; Tarsus, 1.50; Bill, 2.30. Head Aythya americana.
reddish brown, chin and crown dusky; speculum
gray; upper feathers edged with black. Resembles
Redhead Duck, but bill very different. (See figure.) Aythya vallisneria.
Canvas-back Duck, See page 227

160 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Aythya vallisneria. Aythya affinis.

Length, 21; Wing, 8.40; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 2.20.

Head rufous brown; speculum grayish; upper

feathers edged with black; the rest narrowly

tipped with white: (See figure showing difference

in bill from Canyas-back.) Aythya americana (male).

Redhead Duck. See page 226

Length, 20.50; Wing, 8.30; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 2.20.

Head grayish brown; speculum grayish; upper

feathers edged with black; the rest narrowly

tipped with white. Closely resembles female of = &
Ring-neck Duck (A. co//aris), but is larger. Aythya americana (female). .
Redhead Duck. See page 226
Length, 19; Wing, 8.50; Tarsus, 1.50; Bill, 2. Head ;
black glossed with green; back grayish; specu- 1
lum white. Aythya marila nearctica (male).
Greater Scaup Duck.
Bluebill. — See page 228

Length, 17; Wing, 8.10; Tarsus, 1.50: Bill, 1.80.
Similar to the preceding species, from which it
differs only in being somewhat smaller; head black
with purplish gloss; speculum white. - Aythya affinis (male).
Lesser Scaup Duck.
Bluebill, See page 229

<0 ee ee et eee

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, 161

Length, 17; Wing, 7.50; Tarsus, 1.30; Bill, 1.75.
Head black with violet gloss; speculum gray. Aythya collaris (male).
Ring-neck Duck. See page 229
Length, 16.50; Wing, 8.25; Tarsus, 1.40; Bill, 1.60.
Head brown; speculum white. Glaucionetta clangula ameri-
cana (female).
American Golden Eye.
Whistler. See page 231

Hind toe with well-defined membranous lobe or flap.
Belly white, sometimes grayish or blackish on lower part.
Head showing more or less white or grayish white.

G!aucionetta clangula americana. Clangula hyemalis.

Length, including lengthened tail, 21; Wing, 8.50; Bill,

1. Tail pointed; central feathers longest; under

tail coverts white. Clangula hyemalis.
° Old Squaw. See page 232
Length, 17.75; Wing, 8.25: Tarsus, 1.30; Bill, 1.60.

Head brownish showing white at base of bill;

speculum white. Aythya marila nearctica
; (female).
Greater Scaup Duck.
Length, 16.50; Wing, 7.70; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1:50. Blue=bill. See page 228

Similar to preceding, but somewhat smaller.
Aythya affinis (female).
Lesser Scaup Duck.
Blue-bill. See page 229

162 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS

Length, 19.50; Wing, 9.50; Tarsus, 1.75; Bill, 1.50.
Head brownish, showing a slight trace of whitish
on the sides; under surface of body grayish ;
whitish on the belly; feathers on top of the
bill less than one half inch from nostril; no
white on wing.

Length, 16.40; Wing, 7.35; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1.75.
Head and neck grayish brown; chin and ante-
rior portion of lores whitish; speculum gray.
Resembles female of Aythya americana but is
smaller.

Length, 20.50; Wing, 8.30; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 2.10.
Head and neck grayish brown; becoming whitish
on chin; speculum gray; resembles female
Aythya collaris, but is larger.

Length, 19.50; Wing, 9.10; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.90.
Head green; white patch at base of bill; specu-
lum white.

Length, 12.75; Wing, 6; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1. Head
purple, green, and white; back black ; speculum
white. A very small duck.

Length, 12.50; Wing, 5.75; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1.
White patch on side of the head; back brownish ;
speculum white. A very small duck.

Length, 15.25; Wing, 6; Bill, 1.50; Tarsus, 1.20.
General color chestnut brown or grayish brown
(according to sex), silvery white beneath; patch
of white on side of the head; tail feathers stiff
and pointed.

OF FLORIDA,

Oidemia perspicillata (female).
Surf Scoter.
Skunk-head Coot. See page 235

Aythya collaris (female).
Ring-necked Duck. See page 229

Aythya americana (female).
Red-head Duck. See page 226

Glaucionetta clangula ameri-
cana (male).
American Golden Eye.
Whistler. See page 231

Charitonetta albeola (male).
Buffle-headed Duck.

Buffle-head. See page 231

Charitonetta albeola (female).
Buffle-headed Duck.

Buffle-head. See page 231

Erismatura rubida.

Ruddy Duck. See page 236

KEY TO THE

Hind toe with well-defined membranous lobe.

Belly not white.

Length, 21; Wing, 11; Tarsus, 2.05; Bill, 1.50. Gen-
eral plumage black; speculum white; spot
under eye white; bill orange at base; feathers
on the bill less than one half inch from nostril.

Length, 20.50; Wing, 11; Tarsus, 2; Bill, 1.50. Gen-
eral plumage grayish ; speculum white ; feathers
on the bill less than one half inch from nostril.

Length, 18; Wing, 9.25; Bill, 1.75; Tarsus, 1.85.
General plumage black; no white on the wing ;
bill orange at base; feathers on the bill more
than one half inch from nostril.

Length, 17.50; Wing,9; Bill, 1.70; Tarsus, 1.80,
General plumage brownish; no white on wing ;
bill black; feathers on the bill more than one
half inch from nostril.

Length, 20; Wing, 9.50; Tarsus, 1.75; Bill, 1.50.
General plumage black; feathers on top of bill
extending farther forward than on side of bill;
patch of white on bill; orange, black, and white
front of head and nape; no white on wings;
feathers on the bill less than one half inch
from nostril.

Length, 19.50; Wing, 9.50; Tarsus, 1.75; Bill, 1.50.
Head brownish, showing a slight trace of whitish
on the sides; under surface of body grayish ;
palest on the belly. Feathers extended on upper
part of bill more than on sides; no white on
wings ; feathers on the bill less than one half
inch from nostril.

WATER BIRDS OF

FLORIDA.

Oidemia deglandi (adult male).
White-winged Scoter.
White-winged Coot.

See page 234

Oidemia deglandi (male in

winter and female).
White-winged Scoter.
White-winged Coot.
See page 234

Oidemia americana (adult male)
American Scoter.

Butter-bill, Coot. See page 233

Oidemia americana ( female
and immature).
American Scoter.

Butter=bill, Coot, See page 233

Oidemia perspicillata (adult
male).
Surf Scoter.

Skunk-head Coot. See page 235

Oidemia perspicillata (female).
Surf Scoter.

Skunk-head Coot. See page 235

164 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS

OF FLORIDA,

SuBFAMILY ANSERINE. GEEsE.

Branta canadensis.

Length, 40; Wing, 19; Bill, 2.50; Tarsus, 3.20. Band
of white on sides of the head and throat; bill black;
rest of head black.

Length, 34; Wing, 17.40; Bill, 2.50; Tarsus, 3.10.
Entire plumage white; primaries black.

Branta canadensis.
Canada Goose. See page 239

Chen hyperborea nivalis.
Greater Snow Goose.
See page 237

Anser albifrons gambeli.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, . 165

Wing, 16; Bill, 2.20; Tarsus, 3.10. Head
Chen cerulescens.
Blue Goose, See page 237

Anser albifrons gambeli.
American White-fronted Goose.

t See page 238

26; Wing, 13.50; Bill, 1.40; Tarsus, 2.40.

d entirely black ; bill black. Branta bernicla.

Brant. See page 240

Meausveiey CYGNINE. Swans.

Olor columbianus.

, 53; Wing, 21.50; Bill, 4; Tarsus, 4.20.

Distance from front of the eye to nostril longer

than from nostril to tip of bill. A spot of yellow

on the lores in the adult; young birds gray. En-

_ tire plumage white. Olor columbianus.

Whistling Swan. See page 240

166 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

-Famity PHCGENICOPTERIDE. FLamincogs.

Pheenicopterus ruber.

Length, 47; Wing, 16.50; Tarsus, 12; Bill, et
Plumage vermillion red; bill pale yellow, tipped
with black. Pheenicopterus ruber.
Flamingo. See page 241

Famitry PLATALEIDE. Spoonsitts.

De —

Ajaja ajaja.
Length, 31; Wing, 15; Tarsus, 4.10; Bill, 6.30. Bill
flat, widened at tip; plumage pink and white. Ajaja ajaja.

Roseate Spoonbill. See page 242

a ee

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS

Famity IBIDID.

OF FLORIDA. 167

IBISES.

Plegadis autumnalis.

Length, 25; Wing, 11.25; Bill, 5.40. Plumage
chestnut brown ; no white at base of bill.

Length, 25; Wing, 11; Bill, 5.50. Plumage chest-
nut brown; a line of white at base of
bill.

Length, 26; Wing, 11.25; Bill, 6.30. Plumage
white; primaries tipped with black.

Length, 26; Wing, 11; Bill, 6.20. Plumage mixed
gray and brown; belly white; rump white.

Length, 27; Wing, 10.50; Bill, 6.20. Plumage
brownish mottled; belly white; rump brown-
ish,

Plegadis autumnalis.
Glossy Ibis. See page

Plegadis guarauna.
White-faced Ibis. See page

Guara alba.
White Ibis (adult). See page

Guara alba.
White Ibis (immature).
See page

Guara rubra.
Scarlet Ibis (immature).
See page

Ny
_
wn

246

243

244

Guara alba (adult).

Length, 28; Wing, 11; Bill, 6.50. Plumage scarlet;
legs and feet red.» Guara rubra.
: Scarlet Ibis ‘adit.

Tantalus loculator,

Length, 41; Wing, 18.50; Tarsus, 8.20; Bill, 9.20.
Plumage white ; Read and neck without feathers Sa
in whe Tantalus loculator.

: Wood Ibis.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 169

Famity ARDEIDE. HeERoNs anp BITtreRnNs.

Ardea herodias.

Plumage nearly or entirely white.

Length, 50; Wing, 18.50; Tarsus, 8.50; Bill, 6.40.
Plumage white; bill yellow; legs greenish
yellow. Ardea occidentalis.
Great White Heron. See page 249

Ardea rufescens.

170 KEY

Length, 40; Wing, 15.25; Tarsus, 5.50; Bill, 4.60.
Plumage white ; bill yellow; legs and feet black.

Length, 28.50; Wing, 12.25; Tarsus, 5.25; Bill, 3.50.
Plumage white ; legs dark olive; terminal half
of bill black: basal half flesh color.

Length, 23.50; Wing, 9.50; Tarsus, 3.75; Bill, 3.25.
Plumage entirely white; bill black, showing
yellow at base; legs black; feet yellow.

Length, 22.50; Wing, 10; Tarsus, 3.50; Bill, 3.10.
Plumage white; tips of primaries washed
with grayish blue; legs and feet greenish
yellow.

Plumage not white.

Length, 50; Wing, 20; Tarsus,8; Bill,6.50. General
color slaty or grayish variously marked with
white, black, and brownish; 67// yellowish.

Length, 46; Wing, 18.50; Tarsus, 7; Bill, 5. Similar
to Ward’s, but somewhat smaller; d27/ dark.

Length, 29; Wing, 12; Tarsus, 5.40; Bill, 3.80. Head
and neck rufous chestnut ; rest of plumage slate
color; legs bluish; terminal half of bill black;
basal half flesh color.

TO THE WATER: BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Ardea egretta.

American Egret. See page 251

Ardea rufescens.
Reddish Egret (white phase).
See page 254

Ardea candidissima.
Snowy Heron.
Little White Egret. See page 252

Ardea ceerulea (immature).
Little Blue Heron. Sce page 256

Ardea wardi.

Ward’s Heron. See page 250

Ardea herodias.

Great Blue Heron. See page 250

Ardea rufescens.
Reddish Egret (dark phase of
plumage). See page 253

eS ee, ee

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS, OF FLORIDA. I71I

Length, 27.50; Wing, 10.50; Tarsus, 3.60; Bill, 3.10.
Plumage tawny brown, streaked with dark brown.

Length, 26; Wing, 10; Tarsus, 3.50; Bill, 3.80. Elon
gated feathers on crown chestnut and white ;
throat white with brown stripe down the
middle.

Length, 24; Wing, 12; Tarsus, 3.60; Bill, 3. Bill
thick — black: crown of head white and buff.
Immature birds are mottled brown having outer
web of primaries slate color, not rufous brown.

Length, 24; Wing, 12; Tarsus, 3.40; Bill, 3. Bill
thick — black; crown greenish black. Imma-
ture birds are mottled brown, having the outer web
of primaries pale rufous brown.

Length, 22.50; Wing, 10; Tarsus, 3.60; Bill, 3. Head
and neck purplish brown; rest of plumage slaty
blue; legs and feet black.

Length, 22; Wing, 10; Tarsus, 3.60; Bill, 3. Plu-
mage partly grayish blue, partly white.

Length, 17; Wing, 7; Tarsus, 1.80; Bill, 2.50. Crown
dark greenish ; neck chestnut with a line of buffy
white down the middle of throat; legs greenish
yellow; belly pale.

Botaurus lentiginosus.
American Bittern. Sce page 247

Ardea tricolor ruficollis.

Louisiana Heron. See page 254

Nycticorax violaceus.
Yellow-crowned Night Heron.
See page 259

Nycticorax nycticorax nzvius.
Night Heron. See page 258

Ardea ccerulea.
Little Blue Heron (adult).
See page 256

Ardea coerulea.
Little Blue Heron (immature).
See page 256

Ardea virescens.

Green Heron. See page 257

172 KEY TO THE, WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Length, 13.25; Wing, 4.50; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.80.
Very small; throat pale yellow buff; under
parts pale. Ardetta exilis.
Least Bittern.
Length, 13; Wing, 4.30; Tarsus, 1.40; Bill, 1.80.
Throat and under parts deep chestnut. Ardetta neoxena.

See page 248

Cory’s Least Bittern.

Famity GRUID. CRANES.

See page 249

Grus americana.

Length, 51; Wing, 25.50; Tarsus, 12; Bill, 5.10.

Plumage white; bare skin of head red. (Young
birds have the head feathered.) Grus americana.
Whooping Crane.

Length, 45; Wing, 21.50; Tarsus, 10; Bill, 5.50.

Plumage gray or brownish gray; bare skin of
head red. (Young birds have the head feathered.) Grus mexicana.
Sandhill Crane.

See page 260

See page 262

j KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 74

Famity ARAMID. Cour.ans, “ Limpkins.”

Aramus giganteus.

b Length, 27.50; Wing, 12.50; Tarsus, 4.30; Bill, 4.10.

Plumage brown, striped with white; under

, mandible slightly twisted near tip. Aramus giganteus.

Limpkin, Crying=-bird.

See page 263

FamMity RALLIDZE. Rats, GALLINULEs, Coors.

ee ee ne

SUBFAMILY RALLINE. Rails.

Length, 16.50; Wing, 6.20; Tarsus, 2.30;
Lill, 2.30. Upper parts brownish olive,
streaked with black; breast cinnamon
brown ; wing coverts rufous ; cheek

dD cies) er ea il. Se

Pie eee

rufous brown. Rallus elegans.

} King Rail. See page 264
: Length, 15; Wing,6; Tarsus, 2; Bill,

:. 2.30. Upper parts grayish olive streaked

: with black; breast pale buff; cheeks

3 3 grayish, Ralius longirostris crepitans.
f . Clapper Rail. See page 265

Rallus longirostris crepitans.

174 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Rallus elegans.

Length, 14.50; Wing, 5.75: Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 2.10.
Upper parts dark olive brown; wing coverts
not rufous brown.

Length, 8.75; Wing, 4.20; Tarsus, 1.30: A7//, 1.50.
Upper parts dark; throat white; belly brown.

Length, 8.40; Wing, 4.20; Tarsus, 1.25; B7//, 75 fo 90.
Upper parts dark; throat gray; a stripe on top of
head and at base of bill black; lower belly white.

Length, 7.20; Wing, 3.50; Tarsus, 1; B2d/, 55.
Feathers of back banded with narrow white
lines and edged with pale brown; upper belly white.

Length, 5.50; Wing, 3; Tarsus, .90; Bill, .60. Head,
neck, and upper belly slaty gray; lower belly
plumbeous or blackish.

Porzana carolina.

Rallus longirostris scottii.

Scott’s Rail.

Rallus virginianus.
Virginia Rail.

Porzana carolina.
Carolina Rail.
Sora.

See page

Porzana noveboracensis.

Yellow Rail.

See page

Porzana jamaicensis.

Little Black Rail.

See page

266

265

266

267

Pees ee , ; x .
aia det ee tee 4 Oe wey

ry ee es) eee

ne,

Se aa

Se a

Pe ee See eee ee

— eee ee

, eS Seer

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SusprAMiLy GALLINULINZ.

Ionornis martinica.
Length, 11; Wing, 7; Bill, 1.80; Tarsus, 2.40. Gen-
eral color purplish blue; toes without lobate
webs; legs and feet yellow.

Length, 12; Wing, 7.10; Bill, 1.80; Tarsus, 2.25.
General color olive brown and gray; frontal
shield and most of bill red; toes without lobate

webs ; legs and feet _ icine showing scarlet on —

upper portion of tibia.

SuBFAMILY FULIC

Fulica americana.

Length, 15.50; Wing, 7.40; Tarsus, 2.20. Toes with
lobate webs; legs greenish; basal portion of
bill and frontal shield white; general plumage
Slate color; head blackish.

GALLINULES.

lonornis martinica,

Ionornis martinica.

Purple Gallinule.

Gallinula galeata.
Florida Gallinule.

SINE.

See page

208

268

Fulica americana,

Fulica americana.

American Coot, Mud-hen.

See page 269

176 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity PHALAROPODIDE. PHALAROPEs.

Crymophilus fulicarius (foot ).

Crymophilus fulicarius.

Length, 7.50; Wing, 4.40: Bill, .90; Tarsus, .85.
Upper parts gray; ndéck marked with rufous;
under parts white. Phalaropus lobatus.
Northern Phalarope. See page 270

FamMiIcy RECURVIROSTRID. AvocetTs Anp STILTs.

Recurvirostra americana.

Length, 17.50; Wing, 8.75; Tarsus, 3 70; Bill, 3.60.
Bill curved upwards —very slender; middle
back, rump and belly white; legs bluish; head

and neck rufous in summer, gray in winter. Recurvirostra americana.

American Avocet. See page 271
Length, 15; Wing, 8.75; Tarsus, 3.90; Bill, 2.60.

Forehead, bill straight; a spot behind the eye,

and under parts white; rest of head, back, and

wings black ; legs pink red. Himantopus mexicanus.
Black-necked Stilt. See page 272

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. I77

Famity SCOLOPACIDE. Snipes, SANDPIPERS, CURLEWS.

Philohela minor.

Length under 13; wing under 7; bill over 2; toes four in number.

Length, 11; Wing, 5.50; Bill, 2.70; Tarsus, 1.25.
Under parts rufous brown; three outer prima-
ries attenuated ; fourth and fifth primaries longest.

Length, 11; Wing, 5.35; Tail, 2.25; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill
2.60. Throat whitish; belly white; under tail
coverts barred with black; no wed between toes.

Length, 10.50: Wing, 5.50; Tarsus, 1.35; Bill, 2.40.
Tail and tail coverts barred with black; a very
small web between the inner toes.

Length, 10.75; Wing, 5.75; Tarsus, 1.50; Bill, 2.65.
Resembling preceding species, but somewhat
larger; bill longer.

Philohela minor.
American Woodcock.
See page 27

Lo)

Gallinago delicata.
Wilson’s Snipe.
English Snipe. See page 273

Macrorhamphus griseus.
Dowitcher.
Red-breasted Snipe.
See page 275

Macrorhamphus scolopaceus.
Long-billed Dowitcher.
Red-breasted Snipe.

See page 275

=
~I

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Gallinago delicata.

Length under 13 ; wing under 7; bill less than 2 and more than 1; toes four

in number.

Length, 12; Wing, 6.75; Tarsus, 2; Bill, 1.15. Bill
greenish, yellowish at base; legs grayish yellow ;
head, upper parts, and breast mottled brown and
tawny; axillars barred white and slate color; belly
white.

Length, 10.50; Wing, 6.40; Tarsus, 2.05; Bill, 1.40.
Legs yellow; bill black; upper parts grayish
brown; breast mottled; belly white.

Length, 10.50; Wing. 6.40; Tail, 2.40; Tarsus, 1.30;
Bill, 1.50. Legs and feet black. In summer
under parts, except belly, reddish brown; in winter
upper parts gray; breast pale gray.

Length, 9; Wing, 5.25; Tarsus, 1.05; Bill, 1.15.
Upper parts brown and tawny; throat and belly
white; breast pale brown.

Bartramia longicauda.

Bartramian Sandpiper.
Upland Plover. See page 286

Totanus flavipes.
Summer Yellow-legs.
Yellow-legs. See page 283

Tringa canutus.
Knot. See page 276

Tringa maculata.
Pectoral Sandpiper.
Grass-bird. See page 277

-<¢

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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, 179

Tringa canutus. Tringa maculata.

Length, 8.75; Wing, 5.20; Tarsus, 1; Bill, 1.30.
Upper parts gray, showing faint purplish reflec-
tions. Tringa maritima.
Purple Sandpiper. See page

Length, 8; Wing, 5.20; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.20. Back
olive green spotted with white; axillars barred. Totanus solitarius.
Solitary Sandpiper. See page

Length, 8; Wing, 5.20; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.60. Legs
long; upper tail coverts barred with black and
white in summer; white in winter. Micropalama himantopus.
Stilt Sandpiper. See page

Length, 7.90; Wing, 4.90; Tarsus, 1.05; Bill, 1.60.
Upper beily black in breeding plumage. In win-
ter breast gray, shafts of the feathers brown. Tringa alpina pacifica.
Red-backed Sandpiper.
American Dunlin. See page

Length, 5.40; Wing, 3.80; Tarsus, .90; Bill, 1.10.
A small web between the toes. Ereunetes occidentalis.
Western Sandpiper. See page

Length under 10; wing under 6; bill 1 or less; toes four in number.

Length, 8; Wing, 5.30; Tarsus, 1.10; Bill, .80. Breast
buff or grayish buff. Tryngites subruficollis.
Buff-breasted Sandpiper.
See page

276

to
Co
°

287

180 KEY TO THE

Length, 7.70; Wing, 5.10; Tarsus, 1.05; Bill,

Middle upper tail coverts white.

-9O.

Length, 7.50; Wing, 4.40; Tarsus,1; Bill, .go to 1.
Back olive green, showing bronzy reflections when
held in the light.

Length, 5.75; Wing, 3.80; Tarsus, .go; Bill, .85. A
small web between the toes,
Length, 5.75; Wing, 4.05; Tarsus, .go; Bill, .70. No

web between the toes.

Tringa minutilla.

Length under 10; wing under 6; toes three

Length, 8.15; Wing, 5.05; Tarsus, .95; Bill, 1.

Length over 13; wing over 7; bill over 2.75

Length, 24; Wing, 10; Tail, 4.10; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill
from 4 to 8. Bill very long and curved down-
ward; general plumage brownish rufous; axillars
barred.

Length, 18; Wing, 9; Tail, 3.60; Tarsus, 3; Bill,
4.60. Upper parts brownish; under parts rufous ;
bill curved slightly upward; axillars brownish.

Length, 17.20; Wing, 9.40; Tarsus, 2.10; Bill, 3.70.
Bill curved downward ; plumage mottled brown
above, middle of head with dull buffy white
stripe; axillars barred.

WATER BIRDS OF

FLORIDA,

Tringa fuscicollis.
White-rumped Sandpiper.
See page 278

Actitis macularia.

Spotted Sandpiper. See page 287

Ereunetes pusillus.
Semipalmated Sandpiper.
See page 279
Tringa minutilla.

Least Sandpiper. See page 278

in number.

Calidris arenaria.
Sanderling.

See page 280

; toes four in number.

Numenius longirostris,
Long=billed Curlew. See page 288

Limosa fedoa.

Marbled Godwit. See page 281

Numenius hudsonicus.
Hudsonian Curlew. A
Jack Curlew. See page 289

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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA,

Limosa fedoa,.

Length 15.25; Wing, 8.10; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill, 3.30.
Under parts rufous brown or chestnut brown
barred with dusky black; bill slightly curved
upward: axillars black.

Limosa hamastica.

181

Hudsonian Godwit. See page 282

Length over 13; wing over 7; bill under 2.75; toes four in number.

Length, 14; Wing, 7.60; Tarsus, 2.60; Bill, 2.30.
Biil black, nearly straight; legs yellow ; primaries
blackish.

Length 16; Wing, 8.50; Tarsus, 2.60; Bill, 2.30. Bill
black, nearly straight; prominent white patch
on wing; legs grayish; axillars black.

Length, 16; Wing, 8.60; Tarsus, 2.65; Bill, 2.40.
Slightly larger, but very similar to preceding.

Totanus melanoleuc
Greater Yellow-legs.
Winter Yellow-legs.

us.

See page 283

Symphemia semipalmata.

Willet.

See page 255

Symphemia semipalmata in-

ornata.
Western Willet.

See page 286

182 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Numenius hudsonicus.

Length, 14; Wing, 7.40; Tarsus, 2.50; Bill, 2.15.
Rump and upper tail coverts and crissum pure
white; bill nearly straight; somewhat resembles
a Yellow-legs, but has olive green legs. Totanus nebularius.
Green-shank. See page 282
Length, 13; Wing, 8.25; Tarsus, 1.75; Bill, 2.30.
Bill curved downward; plumage mottled brown
streaked with brown; top of head dark brown ;
axillars barred. Numenius borealis.
Eskimo Curlew.
Dough-bird. See page 290

Famity CHARADRIID. PLOVERs.

Length over 9; wing over 6; toes four in number.
( The hind toe so small as hardly to be noticeable.)

Length, 11.50; Wing, 7:50; Tail, 3; Tarsus, 1.90;
Bill, 1.10. Bill thick; axillars smoky black. Charadrius squatarola.
Black=-breast Plover.
Beetle-head. See page 290

:
<

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 183

Charadrius squatarola (winter). Egialitis vocifera.

Length over 9; wing 6 or over; toes three in number.
(No rudimentary hind toe.)
Length, 9.50; Wing, 7; Tail, 2.50; Tarsus, 1.65; Bill,

.go. Axillars gray. Charadrius dominicus.
Golden Plover. See page 292
Length, 10.30; Wing, 6.50; Tail, 3.50; Tarsus, 1.30;
Bill, 80. Rump rufous brown. AEgialitis vocifera.
Killdeer Plover. See page 292

Length under 9; wing under 6; toes three in number.

Length, 8.10; Wing, 6; Tail, 2.60; Tarsus, 1.50 ;
Bill, .80. Above grayish brown; under parts dull
white; buffy white on breast. In summer,
front of crown and loral streak black. In winter,
‘no black on head. /Egialitis montana.
Mountain Plover. See page 295
Length, 7.70; Wing, 4.40; Tail, 1.90; Tarsus, 1.25 ;
Bill, 80. Bill large, black; a band of black or
brown on the breast. AEgialitis wilsonia.
Wilson’s Plover. See page 294
Length, 7; Wing, 4.50; Tail, 2; Tarsus, .80; Bill, .50.
Bill orange at base ; legs yellow; no black stripe
from bill to eye. AEgialitis meloda.
Piping Plover. See page 294

Length, 7.10; Wing, 4.75; Tail, 2.25; Tarsus, .go;
Bill, .50. Bill orange yellow at base; a black
stripe from the bill passing under the eye;
toes with small web. Egialitis semipalmata.

Ring-neck Plover. See page 293

184 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

FamiIty APHRIZIDA. Surr BIRDS AND TURNSTONES.

Arenaria interpres.

Length, 8.60; Wing, 5.70; Tail, 2.60; Tarsus, 1 ;
Bill, .95. Arenaria interpres.

Turnstone. See page 296

Famity H/AEMATOPODIDA. OYSTER-CATCHERS.

Hematopus palliatus. aie pans: aa
Length, 18.50; Wing, 10.50; Tarsus, 2.35; Bill, 3.50. ie oe “
Head, neck, and back black ; under parts white ; @uatopus polite ae

bill orange red in winter, deep red in summer. Hzmatopus palliatus.

Oyster-catcher. See page 296

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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 185

WRDOE ROP YGOPODES.

Divine Brrps.

Famity PODICIPIDZ. GREBEs.

GEeNus COLYMBUS Linn.

COLYMBUS AURITUS Zinn.

Horned Grebe.

Adult in summer: Upper parts, including back, wings,
top of the head and back of the neck, glossy black ; throat
black; front of the neck, breast, and sides of the body rufous
chestnut; rest of under parts white; wings dusky black ;
secondaries white; lores dull chestnut; the two small tufts
of feathers at the sides of the occiput brownish buff.

Adult in winter and immature: UWHead and back gray-
ish, under parts white, usually ¢7aged with gray on the breast
and lower throat; no tufts on sides of the head in winter
plumage.

Length, 13.40; Wing, 5.40 ; Tarsus, 1.70; Bill, .85 to .95-
The Horned Grebe is not uncommon on the
Atlantic coast during the migrations, breeding
from the Northern United States northward and migrating in winter south to
Florida and the Gulf States. .
The nest is constructed on floating debris; eggs, four to seven, dull
white or yellowish white.
Range: ‘* Northern Hemisphere ; breeds from United States northward.”
(A.O.U.)

186 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Genus PODILYMBUS Lesson.

PODILYMBUS PODICEPS (Linn.).
Pied=billed Grebe.

Adult in summer plumage: Throat black, and a black band on the bill; no tufts on sides
of the head in any plumage. Winter plumage: Throat grayish white, no black band on
bill; sides faintly washed with pale brown.

Length, 13.50; Wing, 5; Tarsus, 1.45; Bill, .go.

Often confounded with the preceding species in winter dress.

Florida in winter; not very common. It occasionally breeds in the State.

Range: British Provinces of North America to South America. Nests
on floating vegetation or slightly submerged marshes; eggs three to eight,
yellowish white or dull white in color.

eee | REET gd Pee An) ee eee

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 187

Famity URINATORIDE. Loons, Divers.

Genus URINATOR Cuvier.

URINATOR IMBER (Guwzz.).
Loon. Great Northern Diver.

Adult in summer: Head and neck black, showing green in some lights. A patch of white
streaked with black on the throat and sides of the neck; under parts white; back streaked

188 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

and spotted with white. W7nter plumage : Head grayish, throat white or grayish white, wings
and back not streaked or spotted.
Length, 31; Wing, 14; Tarsus, 3.35; Bill, 2.75.

A winter visitor to Florida, ranging from the far North, south to the
Gulf of Mexico. It breeds from the northern United States northward.
The eggs are grayish or greenish brown, heavily blotched with dark brown ;
they are usually two, in number, deposited on the ground; the nest consists
merely of a little grass or dried weeds.

URINATOR LUMME (Guwzn.).
Red-throated Loon. Red-throated Diver.

Adult in summer: Back and wings slaty brown marked with white; head and neck
gray; nape black streaked with white; front of the neck reddish brown, under parts white.
Adult in winter: Throat white or grayish white; back showing white spots.

Length, 24.50; Wing, 11.25; Tarsus, 2.50; Bill, 2.

Florida in winter; not uncommon on the coast. Breeds from the North-
ern United States northward. It ranges in winter to the Gulf of Mexico. i
The eggs are two in number, which are deposited on the ground near
water, the nest being merely a little grass; they are olive brown in color,
blotched with dark brown or black.

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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 189

ORDER LONGIPENNES.

LonG-WINGED SWIMMERS.

Famity STERCORARIIDE. J:Gers.
Genus STERCORARIUS Brisson.

STERCORARIUS PARASITICUS (Zinn.).
Parasitic Jaeger.

Length from base of hook on end of bill (unguis) to frontal feathers greater than from un-
guis to tip of upper mandible.

Adult (light phase of plumage): upper parts slaty gray, a tinge of pale yellow on the sides
of the head and neck. Crown of the head and lores sooty black; under parts white, shading
into slaty gray on sides and lower belly; two middle tail feathers pointed.

Adult (dark phase): general plumage sooty brown; slightly paler below; crown dark
brown.

Immature (light phase): head and neck streaked with buff or gray; under parts mottled
and barred with slaty gray; upper parts dark gray; some of the feathers edged with buff.

Immature (dark phase) ; general color slaty brown; neck marked with white; feathers on
the belly barred with dull white. In all plumage the two middle tail feathers are pointed, and
the tarsus is black in freshly killed specimens.

Length, 17 to 20; Wing, 13; Tail (adult), 8.40, (immature), 6; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.20.

IgO KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Accidental on the Florida coast in winter. It ranges from the far North
southward to South America and South Africa. It breeds in high northern
latitudes. The eggs are olive brown, blotched with chocolate brown. The
nest is a little grass in a slight depression in the ground.

Stercorarius parasiticus (adult), Stercorarius parasiticus (immature).

STERCORARIUS LONGICAUDUS /%ei?/.
Long-tailed Jaeger.

Length from base of the hook on end of upper mandible (unguis) to frontal feathers /ess
than from unguis to tip of upper mandible; tarsus blue in freshly killed specimens, feet
black.

Adult; Above slaty gray; top and sides of the head dull black ; sides of the head and neck
pale yellow ; under parts dark slate color ; chest and upper belly whitish.

Immature: Resembles the preceding species in color; but may be distinguished by com-
paring the measurements of the bill and tail.

Length, 19 to 23; Wing, 12.50; Tail (adult), 12.50 (immature), 6; Tarsus, 1.65; Bill. 1.10.

It breeds in high northern latitudes, ranging southward in winter to the
West Indies and Gulf of Mexico. The eggs are three in number, pale
olive brown blotched with chocolate brown. It nests on the ground.

A bird of this species was found dead on the beach, a short distance
north of Cape Canaveral. I have never.seen it alive in Florida.

OPO ae PEER Fete. re aes

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. I9ot

FAMILY LARID.Z. Guts anv TERNS.
SusBFraAMiILy LARINE. GuLtts.

Genus LARUS Lrixn.

LARUS MARINUS Zinn.
Great Black-backed Gull.

——- Adult in summer : Whole back dark slate color ; outer primaries black, with tips and termi-
: eure white; head and under parts white.

—- Adult in winter : Head and neck streaked with gray. Immature birds are mottled dusky and
__ buff; head and neck streaked; tail with narrow subterminal band; a very large gull.

Length, 29; Wing, 18; Tail, 8: Tarsus, 2.70; Bill, 2.40.

Coast of North America south to South Carolina; accidental in Florida.
Breeds from Northern Maine northward. The nest is built onthe ground;
the eggs are usually two, pale brown, marked with chocolate brown.

_A specimen of this gull was shot near St. Augustine during the winter
of 1894-5.

192 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

LARUS ARGENTATUS SMITHSONIANUS Couwes.

American Herring Gull.

. White near end of outer primary separated
MLE, é from the white tip by a band of black.

As =. A dultin summer: Back pearl gray; head,
eee : = a oN neck, and under parts white; in winter the
<a as adult has the head and neck streaked with

- *S.. ashy gray. First primary tipped with white
~>. with a subterminal band of black; this, in
‘ turn, is followed by a white band and then
. another black one.
Immature: General plumage mottled pale
brown or buff.
Length, 24; Wing, 17.50; Tail, 7.50; Bill,
2.10. :
The European species, Larus argentatus,

is very similar, but has the two white marks
at tip of primary joined and not separated by the black.

Ranges throughout North America; common in Florida in winter. It
breeds from Maine northward. Nest constructed of grass or seaweed,
usually on the ground; eggs brownish white, lined and blotched with dark
brown.

LARUS DELAWARENSIS Ord.
Ring-billed Gull.

Adult in summer; Bill yellowish
banded with black ; mantle pearl gray;
feet pale yellow or greenish ; first primary
black with a subterminal white spot. In
winter, head and neck streaked with
dusky; band on bill less distinct.

Immature: General plumage mottled
gray or buff gray; bill yellowish tipped
with black.

Length, 18.40; Wing, 14; Tail, 6; Bill,
1.65.

Ranges throughout North

America, in winter south to Gulf

of Mexico. Not uncommon in Florida. Nests on the ground; eggs pale
buff marked with chocolate brown.

i Mae tS

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 193

LARUS ATRICILLA Zinn.
Laughing Gull.

Adult in summer: Head and throat plum-
beous ; rest of upper parts pearl gray; under
parts white ; bill reddish.

Adult in winter: Head white marked with
ash gray; throat white.

Length, 16.50; Wing, 12.50; Tail, 5; Biil,
rae:

This species has a wide breeding
range, extending from Maine to the
Gulf of Mexico. It is resident and
breeds in Florida. The nest is built
on the ground in marshy places, and
the eggs, usually four or five, are
grayish or pale brownish, blotched
with chocolate brown.

LARUS PHILADELPHIA (Ord).
Bonaparte’s Gull.

Adult in summer: Bill black; head and neck plumbeous ;
feet orange red; tail white.
Adult in winter: Head and neck white; top of the head
grayish; feet flesh color.
bh Immature birds have a white tail with subterminal band of
black.
Length, 13.50; Wing, 10.40; Tail, 4.15; Bill, 1.30.
North America, south in winter to Central
America and West Indies. Common in Florida
in winter. Breeds far northward. Nest composed of brush and grass
built in small trees or bushes. Eggs four, pale olive, marked with brown
spots.

194 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.
SUBFAMILY STERNIN. TERNs.

GENus GELOCHELIDON Breum.

GELOCHELIDON NILOTICA (//asse/g.).
Gull-billed Tern.

Adult in summer: Top of head and nape black;
upper part, including rump and tail, pearl gray;
under parts white; bill and feet black, the former
comparatively short and stout.

Adult in winter: Similar, but having the head
and neck white, the nape ashy, and a dusky patch
in front of the eye.

Length, 14; Wing, 12; Tail, 5.50; Bill, 1.40;
Tarsus, 1.30.

A most widely distributed cosmopoli-
tan species. It is common in Florida
and probably breeds in the State. It occurs commonly on the middle Atlan-
tic coast in summer where it breeds, and occasionally wandering as far north
as Maine. The eggs are usually three in number, pale brownish white,

faintly mottled with brown, deposited in a slight depression in the sand.

Genus STERNA Linn.
STERNA TSCHEGRAVA Zefech.

Caspian Tern.

Adult in spring: Bill deep
red ; top of the head black, rest
of upper parts pearl gray; pri-
maries dark slate color on
inner webs, hoary on outer webs ;
tail grayish white ; feet black.
Adult in winter : Top of the head streaked
with black; tail showing brownish bars.

Length, 21; Wing, 16; Tail, 6.10; Bill,
2.60; Tarsus, 1.50.

According to Mr. Scott, the Caspian Tern
/ occurs in Florida.* I have never met with it in
the State; itis known to breed on the Virginia
coast, and probably is a regular summer visitant
to Florida.

* Since the above was written, a bird of this species was killed in March near the head of the Banana River by Mr. T. Watson
Merrill, of Boston.

ies
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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 195

STERNA MAXIMA Bodd.
Royal Tern.

Adult in spring: Bill orange yel-
low; tail forked; crown and nape black ;
wings and back pearl gray, shading in
= white on the rump and upper tail
coverts; outer primary abruptly
marked with white on inner por-
tion of inner web ; feet black.

Adult in fall and winter; F orehead
and front of crown white; occiput and
nape black streaked with white; edges
of eyelids black.

Length, 19; Wing, 14; Tail, 7; Tarsus, 1.35; Bill, 2.60.

Tropical America, occasionally wandering as far north as New England.
It is common in Florida, breeding in the State. It breeds commonly on the
middle Atlantic coast, having been found breeding in numbers on the coast of
Virginia. The eggs are two to four, dull white, mottled with chocolate brown.

Range: ‘‘ Tropical America and warmer parts of North America northward
to Massachusetts, the Great Lakes, and California, west coast of Africa

north to Tangiers.” (A.0.U.)

STERNA SANDVICENSIS ACUFLAVIDA (Cabot).
Cabot’s Tern.

Adult in spring: Bill black, tipped with
yellow ; cap black; upper back (mantle) whit-
ish; rest of upper plumage pearl gray; under
parts white, sometimes showing a faint rosy flush;
first primary edged with white to the tip, cover-
ing the entire inner web at the base and narrow-
ing to an almost imperceptible line at the tip;
tail white, forked; legs and feet black.

/n winter the crown is white dotted with black.

Length, 15.50; Wing, 10.50; Tail, 5.50;. Bill,
/ 2.10; Tarsus, .go.
| This species occurs in Florida
throughout the year, but is much more abundant in summer than in winter.
It breeds on both coasts of Florida; the eggs are pale brownish white,
streaked and spotted with brown.
Range: ** Tropical America, northward along the Atlantic coast irregularly
to Southern New England.” (A.0.U.)

196 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

STERNA FORSTERI Juiz.

Forster’s Tern.

A dultin summer: Crown black ; upper parts pearl gray ;
under parts white; inner web of outer tail feather
darker than outer web ; bill reddish orange tipped with
black; feet yellowish. Adult in winter : Bill dark brown;
feet brown; head grayish; a dusky black patch on sides
of the head, enclosing the eye. J/wmature in winter:
Upper parts mottled with pale brown or buff.

Length, 15 ; Wing, 10.25; Tail, 6.60; Tarsus, .90; Bill,
1.50.

The range of Forster’s Tern extends nearly
throughout North America. It is common in winter in Florida, both on the
east and west coast. It breeds commonly on Cobb’s Island, Va.; the eggs
are two to three in number, usually laid on the sand; they are pale buff or
greenish gray marked with dark brown.

STERNA HIRUNDO Zinn.

Common Tern. Mackerel ‘ Gull.’’

Adult in summer ; Bill red, broadly tipped with black; feet red; crown black ; upper parts
pearl gray; under parts pale ashy gray. Adu/t in winter ; Forehead and crown white or grayish
white ; under parts white. Immature specimens have the upper parts mottled with buff or pale
brown. The outer web of outer tail feather is darker than the inner web at all seasons.

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KEY .TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 197

Length, 15; Wing, 10.30; Tail, 5.50; Tarsus, .75;
Bill, 1.45.

A widely distributed species not un-
common in Florida in winter. It breeds
commonly along the Atlantic coast; the
eggs are three in number, grayish or buff
white, marked with chocolate brown.

STERNA DOUGALLI J/onzag.
Roseate Tern.

Adult spring plumage ; bill black, tinged with red at
base; slender; cap black; upper plumage pearl gray ;
under parts white, tinged with pink when freshly killed.
Tail entirely white; outer feather longer than the
others; legs vermillion red; iris brown. Adult in
winter: Forehead whitish or grayish white; occiput
and upper nape black. Immature specimens have the
upper parts mottled with gray and buff.

Length, 15; Wing, 7.75; Tail, 7.50; Tarsus, .85 ;
Bill, 1.55.

A common species on the Atlantic coast. It is resident and breeds in
Florida, ranging in summer north to New England.

The eggs are three in number, pale, buffy gray or grayish white
marked with chocolate brown.

STERNA ANTILLARUM (Less.).
Least Tern.

Adult in summer: Bi yellow, tipped with black ; fore-
head white ; crown and lores black; upper parts pearl gray ;
under parts white; outer primaries brownish black on outer
webs and inner half of inner webs; tail white; feet orange
yellow.

Adult in winter: Forepart of crown white, marked with
black ; occiput black. Immature birds have the upper parts
mottled with buff and the bill dark brown.

Length, 9.50; Wing, 7; Tail, 3.50; Tarsus, .60; Bill, 1.20.

This is the smallest of the Terns. It is resident in parts of Florida and
breeds in the State. The eggs are three, sometimes four, pale buff or

brownish white dotted with brown.

198 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Range: ‘* Northern South America northward to California and New Eng-
land and casually to Labrador, breeding nearly throughout its range.”
(A.0.U.)
STERNA FULIGINOSA Gm.

Sooty Tern.

Adult in summer, Bill black; crown and
entire upper plumage black; dusky on the
nape; forehead white, extending back in a
pointed streak from the sides of the forehead,
but not reaching above the eye; under parts
white; outer tail feathers white, shading into
dark brown on the inner web near the tip; legs
and feet black.

Length, 16.50: Wing, 11.50; Tail, 7; Tarsus,
.90; Bill, 1.60.

The Sooty Tern is common along
the coast of Southern Florida in summer. It probably breeds in Florida, as
it does so in large numbers in the Bahama Islands. Eggs usually two, buff
white marked with chocolate brown.

Range: ‘* Tropical and sub-tropical coasts of the globe.” (A.0.U.)

STERNA ANZAETHETUS Scop.
Bridled Tern.

Adult: Spring plumage, dill black; cap
black; forehead white, extending in a stripe
on both sides of the forehead over and
beyond the eye ; upper back (mantle) gray-
ish, shading into white on the sides of the
neck; wings grayish brown, under parts
white; primaries dark brown, the first and
second showing a stripe of white on the inner
webs not reaching the tips ; upper tail coverts
slaty gray ; outer tail feathers almost entirely
white, showing a slight tinge of brownish
near the tip; legs and feet black.

Length, 14.25; Wing, 10; Tail, 6.25; Tar-
sus, .70; Bill, 1.50.

The Bridled Tern is a tropical species which is accidental on our coast.
It has once been taken in Florida and probably will be found to occur regu-
larly in summer. I found it breeding in the Bahama Islands in June, 1879,
in company with the Sooty Terns. The eggs are usually two, cream color

or brownish white blotched with chocolate brown.

PITRE LS

—

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. I99

Genus HYDROCHELIDON Bote.

HYDROCHELIDON NIGRA SURINAMENSIS (Gmel.)
Black Tern.

Adult in summer: Upper parts slaty gray; head
and under parts black (except under tail coverts) ;_ bill
and feet black. Adult in winter: head white, with
a black patch streaked with white oh the occiput;
upper parts gray. /mmature: upper parts mottled
with buff or pale brown; sides ashy.

Length, 9.50; Wing, 8.30; Tail, 3.60; Tarsus, .70;
Bill, 1.10.

The Black Tern occurs on the Atlantic
coast from Florida to Prince Edward’s Is-
land, and on the west coast from Alaska
to Chile. It breeds from the middle United States northward. The eggs
are olive brown blotched with pale brown and chocolate brown.

Genus ANOUS STEPHENS.

ANOUS STOLIDUS (Zinz.).
Noddy Tern.

Adult in summer: Bill black; forehead white,
shading into gray on the occiput; lower eyelid
white ; front of the eye, and narrow superciliary line
blackish; general plumage rich olive brown;
primaries dark brown, the first having the inner
web pale brown; legs and feet black. The imma-
ture birds have the head grayish brown, whitish on
the forehead.

Length, 15; Wing, 10; Tail, 5.75; Tarsus, .80;
Bill, 1.70.

The Noddy Tern is a summer visitant to our Southern shores, and breeds
in Florida on some of the Southern keys. It is abundant in the Bahama
Islands and breeds there in June in great numbers. Only one egg is usually
laid; but I have found two in a nest on several occasions. The nest, which
is constructed of sticks and grass, is built ( on the Maraporvos Islands,
Bahamas, ) upon the low cactus plants which cover the islands. Occasionally
an egg was found in a depression of the rock without any nest. The eggs

are buff white marked with reddish brown.

200 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

FAMILY RHYNCHOPID. SKIMMERS.
GENUS RHYNCHOPS Linn.

RHYNCHOPS NIGRA Zinn.

Black Skimmer.

Adult in summer: Bill thin, knife-like, lower mandible the longer, basal half vermillion red,
blackish at tip ; forehead, lores, and cheeks, and entire under part to crissum, and tips of second-
aries white; under lining of wing anda axillars white; rest of plumage black; tail white, the
shafts of the feathers brownish above.

Adult in winter: Similar but browner, and showing a white nuchal collar.

Length, 18 to 20; Wing, 15; Tail, 5.50; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill (culmen), 2.70; Gonys, 4.25.

A common resident in Florida, it breeds on the Atlantic coast from Florida
to Virginia. The eggs, usually four, are brownish white blotched with
chocolate brown; they are deposited on the sand without any nest.

Range: ‘‘ Warmer parts of America north on the Atlantic coast to New
Jersey and casually to the Bay of Fundy.” (A.0.U.)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 201

ORDER TUBINARES.

‘TUBE-NOSED SWIMMERS.

Famity DIOMEDEID. ALBATROSSEs.
Genus DIOMEDEA Linn.

DIOMEDEA EXULANS) Zinn.
Wandering Albatross.

Adult : General color yellowish white ; remiges dusky ; bill
white, pale yellowish at tip. /#zmature birds are dark brown,
showing whitish on the forehead and face.

Length about 4 feet; extent of wings (spread) about 10
to 12 feet.

The only claim this species has to be in-
cluded among our birds is the alleged capture
of a specimen in Tampa Bay, Florida. It is an Antarctic species.

(Very much reduced.)

Famity PROCELLARIID/E. FuLtmMars, SHEARWATERS, PETRELS.

Genus PUFFINUS Brisson.

PUFFINUS MAJOR Fader.
Greater Shearwater.

Adult: General plumage brown, grayish on
the head; under parts and lining of wing white
tail brown; crissum dark; under tail coverts
gray ; tarsus dark in front, the rest pale.

Length, 19; Wing, 12.50; Tail, 5.75; Bill, 2.40
Tarsus, 2.

Ranges from Cape Horn and Cape
of Good Hope to Greenland. I know
of no positive record of the occurrence
of this bird in Florida, but once saw
a stuffed specimen in Jacksonville,
which the dealer claimed was killed
otf the coast.

202 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

PUFFINUS AUDUBONI § Zinsch.

Audubon’s Shearwater.

Adult: Above glossy brown, shading into grayish on the
sides of the breast; below white ; crissum brown and white;
tail brown, the feathers tipped with ashy; bill plumbeous.

Length, 11.50; Wing, 8; Bill, 1.20; Tarsus, 1.55.

Occurs on the Atlantic coast from Florida to New Jersey ;
very common in the Bahama Islands, where it breeds; nest
in holes in the rocks, where the bird lays a single chalky
white egg.

Genus AESTRELATA Bonap.

AESTRELATA HASITATA (Kui/).
Black-capped Petrel.

Adult : Head white; crown black; upper parts except upper tail coverts dusky ; under parts
white ; sides of the chest sometimes gray. Upper and under tail coverts white.

Length, 16.50; Wing, 12; Bill, 1.35; Tarsus, 1.40.
An Atlantic species rarely found near the coast. It has been taken in
‘* Florida and on Long Island.” (ftidgway, Man. N. A. Birds, p. 66.)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 203

GeNus OCEANITES Kevs. Aanp Buas.

OCEANITES OCEANICUS (Kuh/).
Wilson’s Petrel. Mother Cary’s Chicken.

Adult: General plumage dark brown; wing coverts edged with pale brown; part of upper
tail coverts white ; tail black; bill black; legs and feet black; yellow spots on the webs between
the toes.

Length, 7; Wing, 5.60; Tail, 2.45; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, .60.

Common off the Atlantic coast in summer. It ranges throughout the
‘* North and South Atlantic and Southern Oceans.” (A.0.U.)

Genus CYMODROMA Ruinveway.

CYMODROMA GRALLARIA ( Vie7//.).
White-bellied Petrel.
Upper parts dusky, under parts white.
“ Throat usually with only concealed white and without white on the hind neck.”
Length, 8; Wing, 6.25; Tail, 3.10; Tarsus, 1.50.
*¢ Intertropical seas, north casually to coast of Florida.”
(Aeidgway, Man. N. A. Birds, p. 72.)

204 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

ORDER STEGANOPODES.

TOTIPALMATE SWIMMERS.

Famity PHAETHONTID. Tropic Birps.

Genus PHAETHON Luiyy.

PHAETHON FLAVIROSTRIS Brandt.
Yellow-billed Tropic Bird.

Adult: Bill pale orange yellow; general plumage white, sometimes slightly rose-tinted, most
of the primaries showing much black; a black streak passing through the eye; some of the
wing coverts and shafts of the tail feathers black; tail elongated into two very long feathers,
which are slightly reddened ; tarsus bluish; iris black ; webs and toes black.

Length, including tail feathers, 31.50; Wing, 11; Tail, 21; Tarsus, .90; Bill, 2.
The Yellow-billed Tropic Bird is of rare occurrence on our shores, but is
common in the Bahama Islands, and has been recorded from Florida.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 205

FamiIty SULIDAE. GaANNETs.

Genus SULA Brisson.

SULA CYANOPS § Sundeval.
Blue-faced Booby.

Adult: General plumage white; remiges and greater wing coverts dark brown; middle
rectices hoary white tipped with brown; rest of tail feathers dark brown, white at the base;
feet reddish; gular sac bluish.

Length, 27; Wing, 16; Tail, 7.70; Bill, 3.90; Tarsus, 1.85.

This species is claimed to occur on the Florida coast, although it must
‘be considered as accidental. It has been found breeding in the Bahama

Islands.

SULA SULA (Zinn.).

Common Booby.

A duit: Head and throat, upper part of breast, and entire upper plumage dark olive brown,
under parts white; gular sac pale yellow; upper mandible greenish; feet pale yellowish
green; iris yellow. .

Length, 27; Wing, 15.50; Tail, 8; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 4.

a _ Claimed to have been taken in Florida, where it is probably accidental.
. It is not uncommon in the Bahama Islands, where it breeds.

206 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SULA PISCATOR (Zizz.).
Red-footed Booby,

Adult: General color white, showing a buff tinge on the head and neck. Shafts of the tail
feathers pale yellow; remiges and most of the wing coverts slate-gray, showing an ash tinge ;
feet reddish. /izmature: General plumage grayish brown above; dull gray beneath, some-
times whitish ; plumage very variable.

Length, 27; Wing, 14.50; Tail, 8; Tarsus, 2.10; Bill, 3.30.

Range: ‘* Coast and islands of tropical and sub-tropical seas north to
Western Mexico and Florida.” (A.0.U.)

This species has very little claim to be included in our fauna. It may
occasionally occur on the Florida coast in summer.

SuBGENUS DYSPORUS ILLIGeEr.

SULA BASSANA (Zinn).

Gannet.

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Adult. Immature.

Adult: Very large; head and neck white tinged with yellowish buff; general color white ;
primaries dark brown; bare space about the eyes, bluish black. /szmature: General plumage

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KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 207
mottled, grayish brown and white, showing wedge-shape white marks near the ends of the feathers.
Length, 36; Wing, 19.25; Tail, 9.50; Tarsus, 2.20; Bill, 4.

The Gannet occasionally occurs in Florida in winter. It breeds from
Nova Scotia northward, usually on rocky cliffs. The female lays one
chalky-white egg. I found it breeding in great numbers on Bird Rock,
Magdalene Islands in 1877.

Famity ANHINGID. DarTERs.

GeNus ANHINGA Brisson.

(Male.)

ANHINGA ANHINGA (Zznz.).
Anhinga. Water Turkey. Darter. Snake Bird.
Adult male: Breeding plumage, head and neck black, showing a greenish gloss; back of

the head and neck showing lengthened hair-like feathers of dull white: back-mottled and
streaked with white; upper mandible olive edged with yellow; lower mandible yellow, shading

208 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

into green at the tip; gular sac yellow. In winter the male loses the white hair-like feathers on
the neck; middle tail feathers showing transverse fluting.

Adult female : Head, neck, and breast buff color, darker on the nape.

Length, 33.50; Wing, 13.50; Tail, 10.50; Tarsus, 1.35; Bill, 3.25.

Ranges on the Atlantic coast from Florida to the Carolinas. It is
resident and breeds in Florida, building its nest on some limb overhanging
water. The eggs are usually two or-three and chalky white, having a
bluish tinge.

Famity PHALACROCORACID®Z. CorRMORANTS. ‘

Genus PHALACROCORAX Brisson.

PHALACROCORAX DILOPHUS FLORIDANUS (Aud.).

Florida Cormorant.

Adult in summer: General plumage black ; back and wing coverts slaty brown; tail consists
of twelve feathers.
Length, 36; Wing, 12; Tail, 5.75; Bill, 2.20.
Common on the Florida coast. It breeds in the State, the nest being
built on bushes or trees. The eggs are dirty white with a bluish tinge.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 209

Famity PELECANID®. PEticans.

Genus PELECANUS Linn.
SusGENuS CYRTOPELICANUS Rercu.

PELECANUS ERYTHRORHYNCHOS Gael.
American White Pelican.
Adult in breeding plumage : General plumage white ; bill yellowish with horny protuberance
on the top (this is lacking in winter); primaries black ; pouch is lemon yellow and the legs pale
yellow ; iris straw color.
. Length, 60; Wing, 24.50; Tarsus, 4.45; Bill, 12.
The White Pelican is common in Central America and on the coast of
California and Mexico; it occurs regularly in Florida, and is not uncommon
in some localities, but its numbers are decreasing every year. It has been
known to breed in the State ; but does not do so regularly, as it is usually a
winter visitant to Florida.

210 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

PELECANUS FUSCUS Zinn.

Brown Pelican.

Adult in breeding plumage: Neck chestnut brown; head and line at the base of the pouch
yellowish white; upper parts ashy gray, some of the feathers edged with brownish. Bill
brownish white marked with red in spots; pouch dark greenish black; bare space in front of
the eye bluish; tail consists of twenty-two feathers. The immature bird has the head and neck
brownish gray.

Length, 50; Wing, 20; Tarsus, 2.90; Bill, 11.

This species is abundant in Florida, breeding in numbers in some locali-
ties. The eggs are three to five, of a bluish white color, covered with a
chalky deposit.

Habitat: ‘* Atlantic coast of tropical and sub-tropical America, north on
the Atlantic coast to North Carolina; accidental in Illinois.” —_(A.o.u.)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 21II

Famity FREGATID/E. Man-o’-War Birps.
Genus FREGATA Cuvier.

FREGATA AQUILA (Zzz.).
Man-o’-War Bird.

Adult male: Entire plumage brownish black, showing a greenish reflection on the head, and
purplish upon the back; tail forked and composed of twelve feathers; gular sac pale orange ;
iris brown.

Adult female: Differs from the male by having a white patch on the breast, which extends
along the sides of the neck and around it near the middle.

Length, 43; Wing, 25; Tail, 19; Tarsus, 1; Bill, 6.

This species is common on the Florida coast. It is possible that it may
nest on some of the keys; but I know of no actual record of its breeding
in the United States. It breeds commonly in the Bahama Islands, where I
have often found its nest. The female lays one white egg.

Ranges along the tropical and sub-tropical coast of America, and an
occasional straggler has been recorded as far north as Nova Scotia.

212 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

ORDER ANSERES.

LAMELLIROSTRAL SWIMMERS.

Famity ANATIDZ. Ducks, GEESE, AND SWANS.

SusBrAMILyY MERGIN/E. MERGANSERS.

Fish-eating ducks having narrow bills with tooth-like serrations on edges.

Genus MERGANSER Brisson.

Merganser americanus (male). Merganser americanus (female).

MERGANSER AMERICANUS (Cass.).

American Merganser.

Adult male: Bill red, long and narrow, with tooth-like serrations; head and neck greenish
black; under parts creamy white tinged with salmon color ; tail gray; feet red.

Length, 26.50; Wing, 11; Tarsus, 2; Bill, 2.10.

Adult female: Upper throat white; breast and head rufous brown; belly white ; speculum
white; feet orange.

Length, 24.50; Wing, 9.75; Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 2.

The distance from the nostril to the tip of the bill is less than 1.50 inches in this species, and
the female may be distinguished from the next species, viz., Red-breasted Merganser, by this

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 213

character, as the Red-breasted Merganser has a distance from the nostril to the tip of the bill of
more than 1.50 inches.

This species ranges throughout North America and is not uncommon on
the Atlantic coast from Maine to Georgia. Occasionally a specimen
wanders as far south as Florida, although it is not common in that State.
I have on one occasion killed a specimen near the head of Indian River.
The nest is composed of a little grass or leaves on a ledge or occasionally
in a hole in a tree.

The eggs are from seven to ten, of a pale yellow buff color.

Merganser serrator (male.)

MERGANSER SERRATOR (Ziiz7.).

Red-breasted Merganser.

Adult male: WHead and throat black tinged with greenish; a white ring around the neck
not always well marked; breast rufous streaked with black; lower breast and belly white;
the sides and rump delicately pencilled with black. Distance from nostril to tip of bill more
than 1.50.

Length, 23; Wing, 9; Tarsus, 1.90: Bill, 2.30.

Female and young male; Head brownish; throat pale buff; back gray; under parts of the
body are white and speculum is white.

Length, 21; Wing, 8.80; Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 2.50.

Inhabits the northern part of the Northern Hemisphere, ranging in winter
southward throughout the United States to Cuba. It is a common bird on

214 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

the Atlantic coast and is the common ‘ Shelldrake” of Florida; some winters
they are abundant. This and the Hooded Merganser are the two species
which are common in Florida in winter.

The female of this species may be easily distinguished from the American
Merganser by the difference in the measurement of the bill; the bird is also
somewhat smaller. The distance from the nostril to the tip of the bill in
this species measures more than 1.50 inches.

It breeds from New Brunswick northward, the eggs being pale buff in
color and usually from eight to twelve in number.

Genus LOPHODYTES Rercu.

LOPHODYTES CUCULLATUS (Linn.).
Hooded Merganser.

Adult male: Head with large black and
white crest ; upper parts black; under parts
white having the sides brownish delicately
barred with black.

Length, 19.50; Wing, 7.75; ‘Tarsus, 1.30;
Bill, 1.50.

Adult female: Head and neck brownish, show-
ing a slight crest, but not nearly as large as in
the male; under parts white.

Length, 18.50; Wing, 7.75; Tarsus, 1.30;
Bill, 1.50.

The young bird resembles the female, but has no crest.
Length, 18.50; Wing, 7-70; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.50.

This species is found in
many parts of North
America, having a wide
distribution. It is com-
mon in Florida in winter,

(Male.) and ranges along the Gulf
coast to Mexico and Cuba, breeding throughout its
range. The eggs are usually deposited in a hollow
tree near the water ; they are white, sometimes buffy
white in color, and usually number from seven to
ten. It has a peculiar note, somewhat resembling
that of the Scaup Duck, but sharper.

(Female.)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 215

SUBFAMILY ANATINZ. River Ducks.

Ducks having hind toe without membranous lobe
or flap.

Genus ANAS Linn.

(Female.) (Male.)
ANAS BOSCHAS. Zinu.

Mallard.

Adult male; Head and neck dark green with a white ring on the neck; under parts whitish
or ashy white; breast is rich chestnut brown; under tail coverts black; upper tail coverts are
also black with central feathers elongated and curved upwards; speculum purple bordered
with black and white ; feet orange red.

Adult female: Speculum purple bordered with black and white ; head brownish buff ; belly
& buffy brown, usually mottled ; feet are red.
a Length, 23; Wing, 10.50; Bill, 2.20.
j This species inhabits the northern part of the Northern Hemisphere. It
breeds far northward and ranges in winter to the West Indies and Central

| America and is not uncommon in Northern Florida. I have killed a num-

216 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

ber of specimens near Cape Canaveral. The eggs are greenish white and
usually from seven to ten in number.

The Mallard is known to cross with various species, some sixty or seventy
hybrids having been recorded; the most common crosses being with the
Pintail, Black Duck, and Widgeon. The female may always be distin-
guished from the Black Duck by the white border of the speculum.

The male says, ‘* Drake, drake, drake, drake,” several times in a husky
voice and also ‘*‘ Shwipe,” low and husky like a Black Duck. The female
‘¢quacks.” Drakes rarely ‘* quack”; in most species of ducks it is usually
the female.

ANAS OBSCURA Gime.
Black Duck. Dusky Duck.

Head and neck pale brown, finely dotted
and streaked with dark brown; top of the
head darker than the cheeks; general plu-
mage dark brown; feathers edged with pale
buff; speculum purple edged with black ;
bill yellowish green with dark nail, no black
at the base; feet orange red with dusky
webs; the color of the feet varies.

Length, 21; Wing, 10.75; Bill, 2.10; Tar-
sus, 1.75.

This species may always be easily
distinguished from the female of
the Mallard by the absence of the
white stripe on the speculum. It is
pretty well distributed over North ~
America and breeds from New
England northward.

The male says: ‘* Drake, drake,
drake, drake,” and also ‘*‘ Shwipe,”
in a husky voice: the female ‘‘ quacks.”

It ranges in winter to Cuba and the Antilles and is common in Florida,
where it may easily be distinguished from the local species by the streaked
cheeks and throat. Itis also darker in color than the Florida Black Duck.

The eggs are nine to twelve and are pale greenish white.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 217

ANAS FULVIGULA Ridgway.
Florida Black Duck. Florida Dusky Duck.

Adult male; Upper mandible yellowish olive, nail and spot at base of mandible black ; some-
times mixed with dull orange ; under mandible yellowish olive, dusky at tip; legs and toes pale
orange with the webs red ; iris brown.

Adult female : Legs and toes dull Indian red; webs.mottled brownish and flesh color; upper
mandible yellowish olive showing a brownish stripe on the middle and the nail and a spot at the
base black; under mandible pale orange yellow.

General appearance of the Northern Black Duck and lighter in color and having the throat
and cheeks almost without streaks and very pale buff in color.

Length, 20; Wing, 10.20; Bill, 2; Tarsus, 1.70.

This is a resident species in Florida, where it is becoming rather rare in
many localities where it was once common. It nests in the marshes, the
eggs being pale greenish in color. I have found two nests of this species on
the Banana River. Eggs are usually from eight to ten in number, but I have
heard of fourteen eggs being taken in a nest. The note resembles that of
the Black Duck.

218 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SupGENuS CHAULELASMUS Bonaparte.

(Male.)

ANAS STREPERA Zznn.
Gadwall.

Adult male: Head brownish finely streaked with black and dark brown; sides of the
head pale brown mottled with black; neck and breast mottled (black and white), the feathers
being black having a central white mark; under parts white (sometimes grayish white). Under
tail coverts are black and upper tail coverts and rump are black; speculum gray and white ;
the lesser wing coverts chestnut; bill black ; feet orange.

Length, 19.50; Wing, ro; Bill, 1.60.

Adult female: Somewhat resembles the male but has the under wing coverts pure white
and usually little or no chestnut on the lesser wing coverts.

Length, 19; Wing, 10; Bill, 1.55.

Range: North America, breeding usually inthe interior in the northern
part. It iscommon in Florida in winter where it is known as Creek Duck.
The eggs are usually from nine to twelve and buffy white in color. The
note of the male somewhat resembles the call of a deer or perhaps the

squeak of a door; the female ‘‘ quacks” softly.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 219

SupGENuS MARECA STEPHENS.

(Male.)

ANAS AMERICANA Gime.
Baldpate. American Widgeon.

Adult male: Head speckled black and white; top of the head white; a broad stripe of
greenish back of the eye to the occiput; chin blackish; upper breast pale ashy lilac or vinaceous ;
rest of under parts pure white; crissum and under tail coverts black; back ashy vinaceous finely
pencilled with black ; a broad patch of white on the wing; most of the secondaries have the
outer web black edged with white; the inner webs are grayish towards the tip ; speculum black

and green.
Adult female; UHead and throat whitish, streaked and mottled with black; back grayish

brown; tertials dusky edged with whitish. .
Length, 19; Wing, 10.50; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.40.

This species ranges nearly throughout North America but does not breed
on the Atlantic coast as far as known. It is very common in winter in
Florida occurring along the Gulf to Central America and Northern South

220 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

America and the West Indies. The eggs are pale brownish white from
eight to twelve in number.

The European Widgeon (Anas penelope), which occasionally wanders to
our shores has the head cinnamon, speckled with brown while the American
form has the head grayish speckled with dusky. The note of the male is
three soft whistles ‘* Do mi do” of the scale; the female ‘* quacks.”

Suscenus NETTION Kavp.

(Male.) (Female.)
ANAS CAROLINENSIS Gwmel.
Green-winged Teal.

Head and neck chestnut brown; a patch of green behind the eye extending to the nape.
Feathers are somewhat elongated forming a small crest; sides and back pale, marked with
narrow fine lines of black; under parts white, shading into pale brown or buff on the breast,
which is also spotted with black; speculum green bordered with black and chestnut.

Adult female: Was top of the head brownish margined with reddish brown; throat and
side of the neck white spotted with black ; breast brownish with black spots ; rest of under parts
white, sometimes showing black spots on the under tail coverts.

Length, 14.50; Wing, 7.20; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.50.

This species ranges throughout North America breeding north of the
United States. Ranges south in winter to the West Indies, the Gulf of
Mexico and Central America; common in Florida in winter. The eggs are
pale brownish white and usually number from seven to twelve.

The male whistles sharp and low, and the female ‘* quacks.”

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

iS)
i)
Lal

SuBGENUS QUERQUEDULA SvreEPHENns.
ANAS DISCORS Zinn.

Blue-winged Teal.

Adult male; WHead gray with purplish gloss, darkest on
top; a white patch resembling a crescent in front of the
eye; wing coverts and some of the scapulars pale grayish
blue forming a grayish blue patch on the wing ; speculum
rich green; under parts purplish gray spotted on the breast
with black ; the flanks are narrowly barred with black. The
bill is black, the feet yellow.

Adult female: Showing a blue patch on wing, which
distinguishes it from other Teals, except the female of Axas
cyanoptera, but the color of the head will always distinguish
it from that species.

Length, 16; Wing, 7.25; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.60.

Ranges throughout Eastern North America
breeding chiefly north of the United States.
In winter it is common in Florida and its
range extends to the West Indies and North-
ern South America. The eggs are pale buff
usually from eight to twelve in number. The
male whistles and the female ‘* quacks.”

Female.) ;
ANAS CYANOPTERA /vei//.

Cinnamon Teal.

Adult male; Head, neck, and upper parts chest-
nut brown, the crown somewhat darker than the sides
of the head; under parts brownish showing dusky on
the belly ; rump olive brown, feathers becoming lighter
on the edges; wing coverts blue gray, similar to the
Blue-winged Teal; speculum green ; the general colora-
tion of the wing being similar to the Blue-winged Teal,
but the coloration of the body is so different that it
should never be confounded with that species.

Adult female: Resembles the female of the Blue-
winged Teal although larger; the under parts show

(Male.)

222 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

a trace of the chestnut marking of the male and the upper throat and chin are more speckled,
otherwise apparently quite similar to A#as discors.
Length, 16; Wing, 7.50; Bill, 1.75; Tarsus, 1.30.

This is a species which is usually confined to Western North America,
only occasionally reaching the Atlantic Coast in the Southeastern States. It
has been recorded from Florida, but I have never seen an example from
that State, although it is given as quite common by several authors. It ex-
tends to Southern South America in its range; does not breed on the east
coast.

Genus SPATULA Bote.

(Male.)

SPATULA CLYPEATA (Linn.).
Shoveller.

Adult male: Bill very much broadened; head and neck dark green; breast pure white
shading into purplish chestnut on the belly ; wing coverts blue; speculum green edged with
white ; feet orange red.

Length, 20; Wing, 9.50; Bill, 2.70; Tarsus, 1.50,

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 223

: Adult female: Head and neck mottled and streaked with pale brown and dark brown or
black; under parts brownish, mottled and spotted with fuscous, scarcely showing on the middle
_ of the belly ; speculum and wing coverts as in the male.
Length, 19.50; Wing, 9.50; Bill, 2.60; Tarsus, 1.50.
The immature male is often intermediate in plumage between the adult male and female, but
the speculum shows but little green and the wing coverts are slaty gray. The head is often very
much mottled when changing to adult plumage.

(Female.)

This species ranges throughout the Northern Hemisphere, commonly in
the interior. It breeds from Minnesota northward as a rule: there is no
record of its breeding in the Atlantic States.

Ranges in winter to South America, being one of the common species in
Florida during the winter months. The eggs are pale buff white, usually
from six to ten in number. The note of the male is a gutteral short «* Thuck
thuck”; the female ‘‘ quacks.”

Genus DAFILA STEPHENS.

DAFILA ACUTA (Zzuz.).
Pintail. Sprigtail.

Adult male: Bill black having the edges lead color; head and neck dark rufous brown
sometimes showing a faint gloss of green on the feathers; sides of the neck showing a stripe of
white and a stripe of black extending down the back of the neck; under parts white showing
faint wavy fine lines of dusky on the sides; crissum black edged with white; central tail
feathers very much elongated in the male; feet lead color.

Length, 28; Wing, 9.50; Tail, 7; Bill, 2.

224 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Adult female; Tail feathers not so much elongated as in the male; crown and sides of
the head streaked with dusky and pale brown; breast spotted with dark brown or black ; under
parts white; abdomen and sides showing faint lines of dusky ; under wing coverts fuscous edged
with white axillars marked with black; speculum grayish brown edged with white. The imma-
ture male shows considerable variation in plumage, the under parts being usually more streaked
or spotted than the adult female, which it otherwise somewhat resembles.

Length, 22; Wing, 9.25; Tail, 3.50; Bill, 2.

Dafila acuta (male). (Female.)

Ranges throughout the Northern Hemisphere breeding from Illinois
northward; apparently does not breed on the Atlantic Coast, but is common
in winter from Virginia and the Carolinas southward to the West Indies and
Central America. It is one of the common ducks in Florida.

Eggs are usually from seven to twelve and are bluish white in color.
The female Pintail may always be recognized by the pointed middle tail
feathers and the blackish under wing coverts.

The male whistles and the female ‘‘ quacks.”

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

i)
iS)

GENusS AIX Bolte.

(Female.)

(Male.)

: AIX SPONSA (Zizz.).
Wood Duck.

Adult male: Bill red marked with rose-white and a black stripe on the middle of the upper
mandible and tip; under mandible black; head with decided crest, which shows white, metallic
green, and purple; a narrow superciliary line from the bill to the occiput and another stripe of
white behind the eye extending to the nape; chin and throat white, extending upwards in a
streak on sides of head, back of eye; a stripe passing upwards on the side of the head; sides
and front of the lower neck and under breast purplish chestnut dotted with white spots ; under
parts white, sides sometimes grayish showing faint pencilling of dusky lines; upper parts
showing bronze green and purple; speculum bluish green edged with black and white.

Length, 18.50; Wing, 9.50; Bill, 1.40.

Adult female: Crest small but the feathers somewhat lengthened ; head and neck grayish,
whitening on the chin and front of the eyes; front of the neck and breast pale brown mottled
with grayish; the breast showing numerous brown spots which fade away on the lower breast ;
belly white.

Length, 18; Wing, 9.30; Bill, 1.35.

This species ranges from the Gulf northward to Hudson’s Bay, breeding
nearly throughout its range; it is common in the interior of Florida and has
been taken in Cuba and Jamaica. The eggs are pale brownish white and
usually number from seven to fourteen. It nests in a hole in a tree.

226 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SuBrAMILy FULIGULINE. Bay anp Sea Ducks. f

Ducks having flap or membranous lobe on hind toe.

Genus AYTHYA Bore.

AYTHYA AMERICANA (Zy2.).
Red=head Duck.

Adult male: Head and neck brownish chestnut; lower neck and upper breast black-
ish; back apparently grayish being pencilled with wavy lines of black; speculum grayish ;
upper feathers edged with black, the rest narrowly tipped with white.

Length, 21; Wing, 8.40; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 2.20.

Adult female: Bill bluish showing an indistinct bar near the end; head and neck reddish
brown, palest on the sides of the head, becoming ashy on the sides of the head; upper throat
white; breast and sides brownish; belly white; under tail coverts and lower belly sometimes
washed with pale brownish.

Length, 20.50; Wing, 8.30; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 2.20.

This is rather a Western species, as it breeds very rarely on the Atlantic
coast of the United States. It is common in the West breeding from

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 227

Minnesota northward. It ranges in winter south to the Northern West
Indies and occasionally occursin Florida, although not in any great numbers.
It is a very abundant species from Carolina to Virginia during the winter,
in suitable localities. The Red-head may easily be distinguished from the
Canvas-back by the shape of the bill. The forehead arches abruptly from
the bill and does not follow the line of the bill, as in the Canvas-back.

The female Red-head closely resembles the female of the Ring-necked
Duck but is larger. It does not breed on the Atlantic coast.*

AYTHYA VALLISNERIA (Wils.).
Canvas=-back Duck.

Adult male: Head and neck rufous brown
becoming dusky on the crown and chin; the
breast and upper portion of the back blackish;
rest of upper parts and wing coverts showing
fine wavy lines of black, general appearance
being grayish; belly white, the lower portion
faintly lined with dusky. Sides white, showing
the delicate lines as on the back, but very much
fainter and sometimes wanting.

Adult female: Head and neck cinnamon
brown, paler on the throat; belly white or gray-
ish white.

Length, 20 to 22; Wing, 8.75 to 9.25; Bill, .75
to .80; Tarsus, 1.70.

The peculiar formation of the bill
will always distinguish this species
from the Red-head, which it some-
what resembles.

Occurs throughout North America and is more common in the West.
Breeds from the Northwestern States northward to Alaska. It ranges in
winter south to Cuba and Jamaica, although it is only a straggler and is by
no means common in Florida. I have occasionally killed specimens as far
south as Cape Canaveral.

This species is common off the coast of Virginia and Chesapeake Bay
during the winter months. It does not breed on the Atlantic coast.

* A single instance is on record of a pair being found breeding near Calais, Maine.

228 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SuBGENUS FULVIGULA STEPHENs.

(Male.)

(Female.)

AYTHYA MARILA NEARCTICA Sven.

American Scaup Duck.

Adult male; Head and neck and upper breast black showing greenish reflections; back
grayish white delicately lined with fine wavy lines of black, giving it a grayish appearance ;
speculum white; under parts white, the lower belly showing grayish tinge.

Length, 19; Wing, 8.50; Tarsus, 1.50; Bill, 2.

Adult female: Patch at the base of the bill white or grayish white, rest of the head and
neck, breast and upper back brownish; belly white; speculum white.

Length, 17.75; Wing, 8.25; Tarsus, 1.30; Bill, 1.60.

Species ranges throughout North America, breeding north of the United
States. It ranges in winter south to the Bahama Islands, and on the Atlan-
tic coast south to Florida, although it is not nearly as abundant in Southern

waters as A. m. affiinis, to which it is very closely allied. There are, ap-

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 229

ently, no constant characters (with the possible exception of size) by

ich it may be separated from that species; the head, as a rule, shows

sh reflections, while the Lesser Scaup Duck generally has the head

ed with purplish, but these characters cannot be always depended upon

the main difference is one of size.

The eggs are described as being pale olive buff and number from six to

It nests on the ground, as is common with the Sea Ducks.

The only duck that this common bird is likely to be confounded with is
Ring-neck, and it can always be distinguished at a glance from that

cies by the white band on the wing (speculum), which is always gray in

AYTHYA AFFINIS (£Zy2.).

Lesser Scaup Duck.
@ Male : Resembles the male of the preceding species but is somewhat smaller in size ; the
ead generally shows a faint gloss of purplish, while the Greater Scaup Duck shows a greenish
nge on the head.
Length, 17; Wing, 8.10; Tarsus, 1.50; Bill, 1.80.
_ The female resembles the female of the preceding species but varies in being smaller; the
slum of both the male and female is white, and this duck may always be Seiuealihed
n the Ring-neck by this character.
Length, 16.50; Wing, 7.70; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.50.
_ This bird ranges throughout North America, breeding north of the United
States, and occurs in winter south to Guatemala and West Indies. It is the
_ most common species in Florida, being one of the first to arrive and among
_ the last to leave the State. I have seen small flocks of them in the rivers as
late as the first of May. The note of this and the Greater Scaup Duck is a
peculiar sound, difficult to describe but rather easy to imitate. It somewhat
resembles the sound made by spb the finger quickly and lightly over a
roll-top desk.

AYTHYA COLLARIS (Donov.).
Ring-necked Duck.
Adult male: “Head and neck, upper breast and upper back black, showing faint bluish

reflections when held in the light. In the breeding season the male has an orange chestnut
collar which is usually lacking later in the season; belly white with the lower belly finely lined

230 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

with black ; back and scapulars dusky ; speculum gray ; bill dusky, showing a faint bluish gray
band near the end.
Adult female: Head brownish, the sides mixed with grayish brown, widening on the cheeks
and base of the bill; belly whitish, becoming grayish on the lower portion; bill as in the male.
Length, 17; Wing, 8; Bill, 2.

Aythya collaris (female).

) 2 ae Aythya collaris (male).
aes am

Species ranges throughout North America breeding north of the United
States. It ranges south in winter to Guatemala and the West Indies. It is
common in Florida, generally preferring fresh or brackish water to the ocean.

The female of this species resembles the female Red-head, but is easily
distinguished from that species by its smaller size. This species may be
distinguished in any plumage from the Scaup Ducks by its gray speculum.
The note somewhat resembles that of the Scaup Duck. In winter the collar
of the male is usually absent or but slightly indicated. This species does
not breed on the Atlantic coast.

P
4

ON py OE

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 231

Genus GLAUCIONETTA Srejn.

GLAUCIONETTA CLANGULA AMERICANA (Boza/.).
American Golden Eye. Whistler.

Adult male: Head and neck glossy green; apatch of
white in front of the eye; back black ; under parts white ;
speculum white; lining of the wings dusky.

Length, 19.50; Wing, 9.10; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, 1.90.

Adult female: Head brown showing no white in front
of the eye; upper parts dark brown inclining to dusky but
not black; under parts white, sometimes washed with gray
on the sides and lower neck.

Length, 16.50; Wing, 8.25; Tarsus, 1.40; Bill, 1.60.

This species ranges generally throughout
North America, breeding from Maine to the
British Provinces northward. It winters from
New England southward and stragglers have

(Male.) been secured as far south as Barbadoes and
Cuba. It is nota common bird in Florida, although the species occur more
or less regularly on the Indian River during the winter months. Its nest is
placed in a tree or hollow stump. The eggs are usually from eight to ten
in number and dull bluish white.

Genus CHARITONETTA Srejn.

CHARITONETTA ALBEOLA (Zizz.).
Buffle-head. Butter-ball. Spirit Duck.

Adult male: A very small duck; head, upper neck, and
throat greenish purple showing various reflections of blu-
ish and greenish ; a white patch on the head from the eye
backwards; back black; under parts white; bill lead color;
feet flesh color.

Length, 12.75; Wing, 6; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1.

Adult female: WHead and upper parts brownish, showing
a grayish white patch on the side of the head, back, and
above the eye ; under parts white, speculum white.

Length, 12.50; Wing, 5.75; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1.

It ranges throughout North America, south in
winter to Cuba and Mexico, breeding northward

(Female.)

232 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

from Maine to Alaska. The nest is described as being built in a stump or
tree. The eggs are a pale buff usually from eight to twelve in number.

Charitonetta albeola (male).

Genus CLANGULA Leacu.

CLANGULA HYEMALIS (Zzzz.).
Old Squaw. Old Wife. South Southerly.

Adult male in winter: Central,tail feathers black, much elongated; outer tail feathers
white; top of the head and back of the neck to back white; a patch of grayish on the sides of
the head including the eye, which is succeeded by a patch of black on the sides of the neck,
bordered on the lower throat by an indication of brown ;
throat and upper breast pure white ; breast and upper
belly black, the black continuing over the back in a
band; lower belly and under tail coverts white; wing
coverts black; quills brown; a pale yellowish band
across the end of the bill.

Male in summer: Front of the head white; rest
of head, neck, breast, and upper belly smoky black.

Adult female in winter: Head dull white on the
crown and a patch on the side of the back of the head
smoky black or brownish black; upper parts fuscous ;
breast grayish; belly white; tail feathers pointed but
not elongated as in the male.

Length (including tail), 21; Wing, 8.05; Bill, r.

(Male, winter plumage.)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 233

‘It ranges throughout the Northern Hemisphere ; in North America south
to the Potomac and the Ohio; it breeds far northward. (A.0.U.)
The eggs are described as being pale bluish and usually from six to
twelve in number.
. This is one of our most common ducks on the New England coast in fall
and winter. It ranges south as far as Florida, but is not common, although
I have occasionally taken specimens on the Banana River. In the winter
of 1894-5 there were a number of these birds at Lake Worth.

Genus OIDEMIA FLemince.
SuscENus OIDEMIA.

OIDEMIA AMERICANA Sw. & Rich.
American Scoter. Black Coot.

(Female.)

(Male.)

Adult male: General plumage entirely black; bill black, the upper mandible being
yellowish orange at the base. Feathers on the bill more than one half an inch from the
nostril; no white on the wing.

Adult female: Brownish or sooty brown; paler on the under parts, becoming grayish white
on the belly; sides of the head whitish. The female is smaller than the male.

Length, 19; Wing, 9.10; Tarsus, 1.65; Bill, 1.80.

Species breeds from Labrador northward; the eggs being described as
pale brown or dull whitish brown and from six to ten in number. It ranges

234 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

in winter south to Florida and California. I have killed specimens on the
Indian River and saw it at Lake Worth, although it cannot be considered as
a common bird in Florida every year, probably occurring Here J in numbers
only when the northern winters are unusually severe.

SusceNnus MELANITTA Bote.

(Male.) (Female.)

OIDEMIA DEGLANDI Soxap.
White-winged Scoter. White-winged Coot.

Adult male: General plumage black ; ~Afer mandible orange, blackish at the base; a white
spot under the eye and a broad patch of white on the wing; feathers on the bill less than
one half inch from the nostril.

Adult female: Is grayish brown, showing a wash of grayish white at the base of the biil and
behind the ears; the speculum is white, which is a distinguishing character of this species.
Length, 21; Wing, 11.15; Tarsus, 2; Bill (culmen), 1.75; side measure, 2.75.

It breeds from Labrador northward, ranging in winter South to Florida
and California. I found it on the Banana River and Lake Worth during
the winter of 1894-5.

The eggs are described as being buff or cream color, six to ten in num-
ber, the nest being placed on the ground.

Pe ee ae

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 235

SuBGENUS.PELIONETTA Kavp.

(Male.) (Female.)

OIDEMIA PERSPICILLATA (Linn.).
Surf Scoter. Sea Coot.

Adult male: General plumage black, no white on the wing; head black with a white
patch on the forehead and nape: feathers on the bill less than one half inch from the
nostril. A peculiar highly colored bill is one of the distinguishing marks of the male of this
species, it being orange, yellow, black, and white, the feathers on the top of the bill extending

much farther forward than on the sides.
The female and immature brownish, showing a whitish spot at the base of the bill and back

of the eyes; the female having the upper parts brownish; under parts ashy gray shading into
whitish on the belly.

Length, 20.50; Wing, 9.60; Tarsus, 1.65; Bill (culmen), 1.50; side measure, 2.35.

This species may always be distinguished from O. americana by the
forward extension of the feathers on the top of the bill and from O. deglandi
by the absence of the white wing patch. It ranges along the coast of
Northern North America and southward in winter to Florida and has been
recorded from Jamaica. In the winter of 1894-5 it was common about Lake
Worth but is usually not numerous in Florida.

The eggs are described as being buffy or dull white and five to eight

in number.

236 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Genus ERISMATURA Bonar.

ERISMATURA RUBIDA (Wivs.).
Ruddy Duck.

Adult male: A patch of white on the cheeks and chin; rest of head and general plumage
chestnut brown; the under parts silver white; tail feathers pointed and stiff. Male in winter
has the back of the head and neck smoky brown; cheeks white; the bill bluish and the feet
lead color.

Adult female: The general color of the upper parts is brownish gray; sides of the head and
throat whitish, shading into gray on the lower throat and upper breast; under parts silver white,
as in the male. ;

Length, 15.30; Wing, 6; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1.50.

It may easily be distinguished from other species by its small size,
chestnut brown color, and stiff pointed tail feathers.

It ranges throughout North America, breeding locally nearly throughout.
its range. It ranges in winter south to Cuba and Guatemala and Northern
South America; it has been recorded from many of the West India Islands.

The eggs are described as six to ten in number, of dull white or buffy
white, and the nest is usually built on a marsh but is sometimes deposited on

floating vegetable matter.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 237

SuBFAMILY ANSERINEZ. GEESE.
GENUS CHEN Bote.

CHEN HYPERBOREA NIVALIS.- (ors7.).

Greater Snow Goose.

General plumage white ; primaries black and
primary coverts paie ash. The immature bird
has the head, neck, and upper parts mottled gray
and white; the rump and tail are white; under
parts white.

Length, 34; Wing, 17.40; Bill, 2.50; Tarsus,
3-10.

This species ranges throughout North America. Its
breeding place is unknown, but is probably in the far
North. It ranges in winter south to the Greater An-
“S tilles. It is not a common bird in Florida, but speci-
mens occasionally occur there. It has been taken in
Key West and a number of times on the west coast.

CHEN CAERULESCENS (Linn.).
Blue Goose.

‘Head and neck white or buff; dusky gray on
the neck and back, shading into whitish on the
under parts; wings ashy gray, the rump and
upper tail coverts grayish white or white; some
of the quills and tail feathers dusky, showing
white on the edges; primaries are black.

The immature bird of this species has the
head and neck grayish brown, shading into dull
white on the chin.

Length, 30; Wing, 16; Bill, 2.20; Tarsus, 3.10.

The habits of this species are but little known, and for a long time it
was supposed to be the young of the Snow Goose.

238 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

It is now recognized as a species, although comparatively nothing is
known of its habits or range. It has been taken in Cuba and I have been
told that a specimen was killed on the west coast, but I could not learn the
exact locality. I know of no positive record of its occurrence in Florida, but
it is probably an accidental winter visitant.

Genus ANSER Brisson.

ANSER ALBIFRONS GAMBELI (Hart/.).
American While=fronted Goose.

Adult: Forehead and base of bill white; bill pinkish or reddish or pale white ; feet yellow;
the rest of the head brownish; neck grayish brown, shading into dull white in front; under
parts whitish, the breast showing black markings; back ashy gray; the feathers anterially
edged with brown on the upper part; shafts of quills white.

The immature bird is similar, but shows no white on the base of the bill or black markings

on the breast.
Length, 28; Wing, 16; Bill, 2; Tarsus, 2.90.

This species occurs throughout North America, breeding far North
and ranging in winter south to Mexico and Cuba. It is rather rare on the
Atlantic coast, but I have been told that specimens have been taken in North-
western Florida, although I have never seen a bird of this species in Florida
myself. Eggs are five to seven, of pale greenish color, sometimes brownish.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 239

Genus BRANTA Scopo tt.

BRANTA CANADENSIS (Zinn.).

Canada Goose.

Adult ; Head and neck black; a patch of white on the side of the head behind the eye ex-
tending to the chin; back and wings grayish brown; breast and under parts dull grayish white,
becoming white on the belly; tail black.

The immature bird is similar, but has the throat and cheeks sometimes mottled.
Length, 40; Wing, 19; Bill, 2.50; Tarsus, 3.20.

The Canada Goose ranges throughout temperate North America, breed-
ing in Northern United States and the British Provinces. It ranges in
winter south to Mexico and Jamaica. It occasionally occurs in Florida
in winter, as specimens have been killed on the Indian River and also in
Northwestern Florida.

The nest, which is composed of sticks and grass lined with feathers, is
built in the marshes and on borders of streams; it is claimed that sometimes
the nest is placed in a tree. At one time it bred commonly on the Magda-
lene Islands. The eggs are four or five, usually brownish white.

i's)
+
e)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

BRANTA BERNICLA (Zinn).

Brant.

Whole of head, neck, and upper breast black, ex-
cept a patch on the sides of the neck, which is
white and black; back grayish brown; longer tail
coverts white; lower breast grayish, shading into
white on the belly.

Length, 25; Wing, 13; Tarsus, 2.25; Bill, 1.30.

Ranges from Arctic Circle, where it
breeds, southward to Georgia and occa-
sionally to Florida, several having been
killed on the Florida coast.

The eggs are described as creamy
white in color, four in number. The
nest is composed of grass and moss.

SUBFAMILY CYGNINUE. Swans.
GENUS OLOR WaAGLER.

OLOR COLUMBIANUS (Ord).
Whistling Swan.

General plumage white; bill and feet black; a
small yellow spot at the base of the bill in front
of the eye which is not always present; the distance
from the front angle of the eye to the back edge of
the nostril is more than the distance from the back
edge of the nostril to the end of the bill; this is one
of the characters by which it may be distinguished
from the Trumpeter Swan.

The immature birds are usually ashy gray in
color with a brownish wash on the head and upper
neck; feet pale yellowish, sometimes pale flesh color.

Length, 53; Wing, 21.50; Bill, 4; Tarsus, 4.20.

This species ranges throughout most of North America, breeding in the
far North. It is common in winter on the Atlantic coast about the Carolinas

Cre

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 241

d and Virginia, and occasionally wanders as far south as Florida. I know of
_ one or two instances where it has been seen, and a specimen was killed and
_ brought into Jacksonville in the winter of 1894-5.

ORDER ODONTOGLOSS-.

LAMELLIROSTRAL GRALLATORES.
Famity PHCZNICOPTERIDE. FLAMINGOES.
Genus PHCENICOPTERUS Linn.

PHCENICOPTERUS RUBER Zinn.
American Flamingo.

Adult male: Entire plumage scarlet; most of the
primaries black; legs lake red; terminal half of the
bill black; basal half of lower mandible orange. The
female and immature males are lighter colored and
paler.

Length, 52; Wing, 17; Tail, 6.50; Tarsus, 12.50; Bill,
Hah.

This species occurs on the coast of trop-
ical and sub-tropical America. It is a resi-
dent in Florida, although seldom seen
there. At one time it was abundant but is
now only to be found in one or two local-
ities. East of Cape Sable there was quite
a colony of them, but the place is very diffi-
cult of access and they are very shy. This
species is still abundant in the Bahama
Islands, where I found it breeding. It lays
two chalky-white eggs. The nest, which
is constructed of mud, is shaped like a
sugar-loaf slightly hollowed on the top, and
usually from about 14 inches to 20 inches
in height.

242 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. '
ORDER HERODIONES.
Herons, Storks, Iprses, Etc.

SUBORDER IBIDES.

SPOONBILLS AND IBISES.

Famity PLATALEID. SPpoonsitts.
Genus AJAJA ReIcu.

AJAJA AJAJA (Linn.).
Roseate Spoonbill.

Back and wings a delicate rose white; under parts showing rose color ; bare skin of the head
greenish and yellow; bill widened at the tip, somewhat spoon-shaped but flat, tinted with green-
ish and yellowish; legs dull red. Very old birds have the lesser wing coverts and upper tail
coverts brilliant carmine red.

The immature bird has general plumage pale pinkish white with no red on the lesser wing
coverts.

Length, 31; Wing, 15; Tarsus, 4.10; Bill, 6.30.

a”

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 243

This species occurs in South America from the West Indies north to
Florida and the Gulf States. It breeds in Florida, where it is known as
«Pink Curlew,” the nest being placed in mangrove bushes or low trees.
The eggs are usually four or five, being white and marked with olive
brown. The bird is common on the Bahama Islands.

Famity IBIDID®. Insisss.
Genus GUARA REeEIcu.

Guara alba (immature).

GUARA ALBA (Zinn.).
White Ibis.

General plumage white, with the four outer primaries tipped with black; the bare skin on the
head is reddish orange. The immature bird is sometimes brown and white: sometimes gray,
_ brown, and white, aban the under parts white, and still younger birds are Gece with a white

244 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

rump and gray or grayish brown tail; the rump is always white, never brown, as in the young
of the Scarlet Ibis. There is a great difference in size of individuals.
Adult: Length, 26; Wing, 11.25; Bill, 6.30.

Guara alba (adult).

Ranges throughout tropical America and is claimed to have been found
breeding as far north as Illinois and South Carolina, and it has been taken
as far north as Long Island. It is a common species in Florida, where it
breeds. The nest is a mass of grass and weeds placed in bushes and some-
times in trees. The eggs are usually from four to five, and greenish white
in color marked with chocolate brown.

GUARA RUBRA (Linn.).
Scarlet Ibis.

Adult: General plumage scarlet; tips of the outer primaries black; bare skin of the head,
bill, and legs red.

The immature are mixed brownish gray, pale on the under parts, having the rump brownish

like the back.
The immature of this species may be easily distinguished from the immature of the White
Ibis by the color of the rump.
Adult: Length, 28; Wing, 11; Bill, 6.50.
This species has but a very slight claim to be included among our birds.
I know of no positive record of its capture in the United States. Audubon
claimed to have seen this species in Louisiana but did not procure a specimen.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 245

Dr. Coues examined a fragment of a specimen taken near Los Pinos, New
Mexico, in June, 1864, and Mr. Brewster records a specimen in the museum
at Charleston, S. C., which is labelled ‘* Florida,” and which he believes
quite possibly might be an authentic specimen. [N.O. C., Vol. VIII., page
185, 1883. |

This species has been recorded from Cuba and Jamaica but is a native of
tropical America.

Genus PLEGADIS Kaup.

PLEGADIS AUTUMNALIS (//asse/q.).
Glossy Ibis.

Adult: General plumage chestnut; wing coverts, back and front of héad showing green-
ish and sometimes bronzy reflections.
The immature birds have the plumage more brownish and the front of the head slightly
mottled; the back greenish; under parts dusky brown.

Length, 25; Wing, 11.25; Bill, 5.40.

Tropical America, not common in the United States. It occurs in Florida
and has been taken in the West Indies. Specimens have occasionally been
taken in summer as far north as Massachusetts. It has been recorded. from
Cambridge and I have a specimen in my collection which was shot at East-
‘ham, Mass. The eggs are described as dull blue in color and are usually
three in number.

246 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

PLEGADIS GUARAUNA (Zinn.).
White-faced Glossy Ibis.

Head chestnut, having a white patch on forehead, chin and bordering the bare space in,
front of the eye. Under parts purplish chestnut; upper part of back and wings showing me-
tallic tints of purple, violet, and green; primaries greenish, showing a bronze luster; rump and
upper tail coverts and tail greenish with purplish reflections.

Length, 25; Wing, 11; Bill, 5.50.

This species ranges throughout Western United States, south through
Central America to South America, and has been recorded from the West
Indies. It is a rare bird on the east coast, a single specimen having been
found breeding near Lake Washington, Florida. [ Brewster, Auk III., 1886,
page 482. | /

This species may be distinguished from the Glossy Ibis by the white at
the base of the bill. It builds its nest in swamps, sometimes on bushes; the
eggs are bluish. |

SuBORDER CICONIA.
STORKS, ETC.

Famity CICONIID/Z. StTorKks ANp Woop IBISEs.
SUBFAMILY TANTALINZ. Woop IsIsEs.

Genus TANTALUS Liny.

TANTALUS LOCULATOR Zinz.
Wood Ibis.

Adult: Having the head and neck bare; general plumage white; primaries, secondaries,
and tail greenish black.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 247

_ The immature bird has the head feathered and the plumage grayish on the head and some-
5 times grayish white on the body.
: Length, 41; Wing, 18.50; Tarsus, 8.20; Bill, 9.20.

Ranges throughout Southern United States, wandering occasionally as
ar north as Pennsylvania and New York, and southward to Cuba, Jamaica,
and South America. This species is common in Florida, where it breeds.
It builds a large rough nest of sticks, which is placed ina tree. The eggs
are usually three; they are white, and covered with a chalky deposit.

SuporDER HeEropit.
Herons, Ecrets, BirrerNs, ETC.

Famity ARDEID/E. Herons, BITTERNS, ETC.
' Supramiry BOTAURINZ. Brrrerns.
Genus BOTAURUS Hermann.
Suscenus BOTAURUS.

BOTAURUS LENTIGINOSUS (Montag.).
American Bittern.

Upper parts brown; wing coverts edged and mottled with tawny and buff and washed with
ashy; top of the head and nape slaty with black streak on sides of the upper neck; neck and

248 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

under parts tawny white ;' feathers edged with dusky and dull brown; legs greenish yellow; a
loral stripe of dark brown; bill yellowish with a dark streak at the top.

Length, 27; Wing, 11.50; Bill, 3; Tarsus, 3.40.

The female is smaller than the male and the bird varies very much in size.

It ranges throughout temperate North America and is common on the
Atlantic coast, breeding, as a rule, north of North Carolina. It ranges in
winter south to Central America and the West Indies, being common in
Florida in some localities. |

The eggs are usually from three to five in number, grayish brown in
color.

Genus ARDETTA Gravy.

ARDETTA EXILIS (Gmei.).
Least Bittern.

Adult male: Crown of the head black, extending into a small
crest; back and tail black with a greenish tinge back of the neck;
wing, coverts chestnut brown; some of the wing coverts tawny yellow;
Sront and sides of the neck and under parts yellowish brown, show-
ing white on throat; a patch of brownish black on the sides of the
breast; bill yellowish, dusky on the top; legs green, yellow on the
back; toes yellow.

Adult female: Waving the back and crown purplish chestnut in-
stead of black.

Length, 12.50; Wing, 4.50; Bill, 2; Tarsus, 2.10.

This species ranges from temperate North America
southward to the West Indies and Northern South
America.

It breeds along the Atlantic coast nearly throughout
its range. It is common in Florida where it breeds, being very abundant in
some localities.

The nest is placed in a bunch of reeds or rushes, sometimes on small
bushes.

The eggs are from four to six, pale bluish white. I have found as many
as a dozen nests of this species within a distance of fifty yards on some of
the small Florida ponds, but it seems to be local, as many ponds in the same
locality, seemingly equally suitable, did not contain a single individual.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 249

me ARDETTA NEOXENA Cory.
; Cory’s Bittern.*

Top of the head, back, and tail dark greenish black, show-
ing a green gloss when held in the light. Sides of the head
and throat rufous chestnut; the feathers on the back of
the neck showing greenish black tips; breast and under parts
nearly uniform chestnut, shading into dull black on the
sides; wing coverts dark rufous chestnut; all the remiges
entirely slaty plumbeous ; under tail coverts dull black.

Wing, 4.30; Tarsus, 1.40; Bill, 1.80.

. This interesting little Bittern was described by me in 1886 from a speci-
men taken in the Everglades of Florida. Since then a dozen or more
specimens have been secured, most of them from Florida, but one was taken
near Toronto, and another in Michigan. It is probably not uncommon in
‘some localities, but its retiring disposition makes it seem rare, as it is seldom
seen.

SusprAmMity ARDEIN. HErons anv EGRETtTs.

Genus ARDEA Linn.
SuspGENuUS ARDEA,

ARDEA OCCIDENTALIS Aud.
Great White Heron.

Adult; General plumage entirely white; bill yellow; upper part of the leg near the feath-
ers, and soles of the feet yellow; the lower part of the leg from the knee to the foot (tarsus) yellow.
Length about 50; Wing about 18.50 to 20; Bill, 6.50; Tarsus, 8.50.

* When I described this bird in 1886 I gave it no English name, simply calling it eoxena (new and strange). The com-
mittee of the American Ornithologists’ Union have since done me the honor of giving it my name.

250 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

This species is resident in Florida, occurring most commonly in the
southern part of the State. It has been recorded from Cuba and Jamaica.
It is not common now and is becoming less so every year. The birds breed in
colonies, the nest being a mass of sticks placed in mangrove trees. The
eggs are usually from three to four, pale bluish in color. }

ARDEA WUERDEMANNI Baird.
Wurdemann’s Heron.

Adult: Head and upper neck white, the forehead showing blackish edges to the feathers
and faint streaks of black on the back of the head; neck grayish purple; rest of plumage
somewhat resembling the Great Blue Heron, but the markings are paler.

Size about the same as Ardea occidentalis.

This bird is probably merely a color phase of occzdentalis. It is no-
where common and is seen so seldom that it is doubtful if its true standing
will ever be known; still the preponderance of opinion among naturalists
seems to be that it is simply a color phase of occ¢dentalis and should not
be recognized as a species. Nearly all of the specimens now in collections
have been taken on the southwestern coast of Florida.

ARDEA WARDI Ridew.

Ward’s Heron.

Adult: Similar to the Great Blue Heron but somewhat larger, especially the bill. The legs
are olive instead of black, as a rule; bill usually yellow, dusky on the top, asa rule, but some-
times entirely yellow.

Wing, 20.50; Tarsus, 8.75; Bill, 6.50 to 7.

This species seems to be restricted to Florida; it breeds in communities,
the eggs being apparently of the same color as those of the northern

Blue Heron.

ARDEA HERODIAS Zinn.

Great Blue Heron.

Crest lengthened ; bill yellow, dark brown on top; legs and feet dark brown; soles of the
feet yellow; astreak from the forehead to the middle of the crown white; sides of the crown
and crest feathers black; neck grayish purple mixed with black and white; chin and part of the
cheeks whitish, extending in a tawny line on the throat; neck plumes; belly black streaked with

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 251

1 te; back and upper parts bluish slate or gray. The immature birds show a great variety of
color in the plumage.
Length, 48; Wing, 20; Tail, 7; Tarsus, 6.50; Bill, 5.50.

Ardea herodias.

_ It ranges throughout North America from the far North southward to
the West Indies and South America. It is supposed to breed on the At-
lantic coast from Florida northward, although I have never seen this species
in Florida in the breeding season.

_ The nest, which is built in a tree, is a large affair composed of sticks.
The eggs are from three to four in number and pale blue.

SuscENUS HERODIAS Bore.

ARDEA EGRETTA Gme/.
American Egret.

Adult: Entire plumage oy. having in the breeding season re graceful plumes on the

with greenish.
Length, 38; Wing, 16; Tarsus, 5.80; Bill, 4.80.

This species ranges throughout tropical and temperate America, having

252 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Scotia. It is a common species in Florida, where it is ruthlessly shot for its
plumes. It breeds in colonies. The nest is a mass of sticks built in bushes
or small trees. The eggs are from three to five in number and pale blue in
color.

Ardea egretta.

SusceNus GARZETTA Kavp.

ARDEA CANDIDISSIMA Gime.
Snowy Heron. White Egret.

Ardea candidissima.

Adult: Entire plumage pure white, having in the breeding season extended plumes on the
back and also feathers on the crest lengthened; bill black, becoming yellowish at the base;
lores yellow ; legs black; feet yellow.

Length, 22; Wing, 11; Tarsus, 3.50; Bill, 3.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 253

This species ranges throughout tropical and temperate America as far
south as Buenos Ayres, South America. It is very common in Florida, where
it breeds, and has been known to breed as far north as Long Island. Strag-
glers have been taken in Nova Scotia.

The eggs are three to five in number and pale blue, as in most of this
family.

This species is sometimes confounded with the immature of the Florida
Blue Heron, which is also white, but that species has a faint wash of grayish
on the tips of the primaries. Besides having the primaries perfectly white
without any wash near the tips, this species has the legs black, which in the
immature of the Florida Blue Heron are greenish yellow.

SusGENuS DICHROMANASSA Ripew.

ARDEA RUFESCENS Gmel/.
Reddish Egret.

(Colored phase.)

_ Adult in colored phase: Head and neck lilac brown; rest of plumage dark slate color. This
species has the long plumes extending from the scapular region of the back during the breed-
ing season; legs and feet bluish, showing dusky on the scales of the tarsus. Bill black on the
terminal third, the balance flesh color; lores flesh color.

254 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

White phase; Entire plumage white ; bill black on the’terminal third; balance flesh color;
legs greenish.
Length, 29; Wing, 14; Tail, 4; Tarsus, 5.30; Bill, 3.90.

(White phase.)

For a long time the white phase of this species was considered to be
distinct and was known as Peal’s Egret. There can be no doubt as to its
merely being a different phase of plumage and not a distinct species, as the
young birds, both white and colored, have been taken from the same nest.

It usually breeds in Florida, the nest being built on the lower branches
of a mangrove tree close to the water.. I found this bird breeding in the
Bahama Islands, and on June 25, 1879, took a white and a gray bird from
the same nest, neither of them being old enough to fly.

The eggs are usually from 3 to 4 in number, being pale blue in color

SuBGENUS HYDRANASSA Bairp.
ARDEA TRICOLOR RUFICOLLIS (Gosse).
Louisiana Heron.

Adult male in breeding plumage: Terminal third of bill black, balance blue; lores blue in
winter; bill black, yellowish at base; general plumage slaty blue; crest streaked reddish purple:

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 255

mixed with dull white; throat white, mixed with reddish brown and purple, heaviest on the lower
part, forming a stripe continuing down the front of the neck; under parts white; under tail
coverts slightly edged with bluish; legs yellowish green; iris red.

Length, 25; Wing, 10.50; Tail, 3.50; Tarsus, 4; Bill, 4.

Ardea tricolor ruficollis.

Is common in the Gulf States, extending to Mexico, Central America,
and the West Indies, accidental northward to New Jersey.

It isa common species in Florida, breeding in bushes near water. The
eggs are usually four or five, pale blue in color.

256 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SupGENUS FLORIDA BParrp.

ARDEA CCERULEA Zinn.
Little Blue Heron.

(Adult.)

Adult; Head and neck purplish red or maroon, rest of plumage grayish blue; biil black at
the end ; basal portion and loral space blue; legs and feet black.

Immature birds are pure white, except afaint wash of grayish blue near the tip of the pri-
maries; legs olive or yellowish and the basal half of the bill greenish.

This species is sometimes confounded with the Snowy Egret, but may easily be distinguished
from that species by the slight wash of blue on the ends of the primaries and by the color of
the legs and bill.

Length about 23; Wing, 11; Tarsus, 3.60.

(Immature.)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 257

| It ranges in winter from the Southern United States to the West Indies
and South America; north in summer accidentally to New England.
It breeds in Florida, building a nest of sticks in bushes and small trees,

usually over water. The eggs are three to four in number and pale blue.

SunceENuS BUTORIDES Btyru.

Ardea virescens.

ARDEA VIRESCENS Zinzn.
Little Green Heron.
Top of the head extending in a small crest dark green; neck chestnut; throat marked
heavily with white; under parts pale purplish or ashy marked with white; back greenish, show-

ing tinge of slate color; wing coverts green, feathers edged with buffy white; bend of wing
whitish ; tail greenish, upper mandible black; lower mandible mostly yellow, dark on the top;

legs yellowish green.
Length, 16 inches; Wing, 6.50; Tail, 2.40; Tarsus, 1.85 ; Bill, 2.30.

This species ranges from Canada southward to South America and the
West Indies, being common and breeding throughout most of its range on
a the Atlantic coast. It is common in Florida, where it breeds.

a The nest is usually placed on a branch of a tree overhanging water.

i The eggs are pale blue, usually four to six in number.

bo
Un
[o/@)

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. :

Genus NYCTICORAX STEPHENS.

Suscenus NYCTICORAX.

NYCTICORAX NYCTICORAX NAEVIUS (Bodd.).
Black-crowned Night Heron.

Crown, head, back, and scapulars greenish black; forehead, lores, most of the neck and under
parts white or ashy white. Wings and tail gray; legs and feet yellow; two or three very long
occiputal plumes, white, in the breeding season.

Length, 24 to 26; Wing, 11; Tarsus, 3.10 to 3.40; Tail, 4.20 to 5.30.

The immature bird has the general plumage mottled dark brown and gray, the feathers
marked and streaked with pointed blotches of grayish or buff; outer web of primaries buff
color; under parts streaked with black and white.

This species occurs on the Atlantic coast from Canada to South America
and has been recorded from the West Indies. It is common in Florida.
The nest is a mass of sticks generally built in trees or low bushes, rarely on
the ground. All the nests that I personally have found have been built in

trees or bushes. The eggs are four to six in number and pale blue.

to
Loa
\O

KEY TO THE WATER. BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Nycticorax nycticorax nzvius (immature).

Suscenus NYCTHERODIUS Reicu.

NYCTICORAX VIOLACEUS (Zinz.).
Yellow-crowned Night Heron.

(Adult.)

Top of the head whitish buff extending into a crest; ‘sides of the head black; throat black ;
breast and under parts grayish plumbeous; back plumbeous; two or three very long feathers
extending as long plumes from the crest; legs greenish.

260 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Length, about 23; Wing, 13.20; Tail, 4; Tarsus, 3.70; Bill, 2.60.

Immature birds have the crown dusky streaked with white or buffy white, the rest of the
plumage heavily mottled, blotched with pointed marks of brown; also marked with buff and
dull white. Primaries slate color, showing no rufous. The immature birds of this species
somewhat resemble those of the Black-crowned Night Heron, but differ from it, having the head
darker and no rufous on the primaries. ay

This species occurs in Eastern North America from the Carolinas south
to South America and the West Indies. It has been recorded as far north
as Massachusetts. It breeds commonly in Florida. The nest is built in

trees, and the eggs are four or five in number and pale blue.

ORDER PALUDICOLA

CRANES, RAILS, ETC.

SuBORDER GRUES.

CRANES.

Famity GRUID. CRANEs.
GENUS GRUS PAttas.

GRUS AMERICANA (Ziuz.).
Whooping Crane.

Adult: Bare part of the head hairy; plumage white; primaries black; bill greenish; legs
black; bare skin on the head carmine red. The immature birds have the head feathered and
the general plumage brownish gray.

Length, 52; Wing, 23.50; Tail, 8.40; Bill, 6.10; Tarsus, 12.

This species is a rare bird on the Atlantic coast, although it was formerly
not uncommon and has been recorded from New England. It now inhabits

Ce ee eS —

' KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 261

Grus americanus.

interior of North America from the fur countries south to Texas and
ico, and is supposed to be occasionally found in Florida. I have never
h it in Florida and it must be considered a rare bird in the State.
breeds from Illinois northward, the eggs being two, pale grayish green,
otched and marked with dark brown.

262 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA,

GRUS MEXICANA (Miil/.).
Sandhill Crane.

Grus mexicana.

Adult; Waving the bare skin on the top of the head deep red; general plumage brownish
gray, sometimes buffy gray on the back; legs black.

Length, 46; Wing, 21.50; Tarsus, 10 ; Bill, 5.30.

This species ranges throughout the southern half of North America,
being common in Florida and some parts of Georgia. It breeds commonly
in Florida, the nest being a pile of sticks sometimes built in the middle of
a shallow pond, and again the bird simply deposits the eggs in some open
piece of dry ground with no attempt at a nest. The eggs are two in number,
grayish olive marked with dark brown. The note of the Sandhill Crane
somewhat resembles the sounds made by the blocks when hoisting sail on a
vessel.

Pent

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 263

SuporpER RALLI.

RaiLts, GALLINULES, CooTs, ETC.

Famity ARAMID. CourRLaANs.
Genus ARAMUS VIErLL.

ee ARAMAS GIGANTEUS (Bona/.).
® Limpkin.
General plumage dark olive brown striped with white, the stripes on the body being much

heavier than those on the head and neck; wing and tail showing bronzy reflections when heid
in the light ; under mandible slightly twisted near the tip.

Length, 27.50; Wing, 13; Tarsus, 4.35; Bill, 4.50.

Aramus giganteus.

This species occurs in Florida on the Atlantic coast and Central America
pe and in many of the West Indies.

It is resident and breeds in Florida, the nest being composed of leaves
and twigs, which is placed in a tree or bush near a river or in a swamp.
1 The eggs are from five to seven in number and buffy white marked with
_ dark brown. At one time it was a very abundant species, but is now seldom
E seen except in the less inhabited districts. It eats the land-snails which are
so abundant in the cypress ponds on the borders of the Everglades.

264 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity RALLID/. Raits, GALLINULES, AND Coors.

SUBFAMILY RALLIN. Rarts.
Genus RALLUS Linn.

RALLUS ELEGANS Aud.
King Rail.
Adult: Upper parts dark brown; throat white; breast reddish brown; sides darker barred
with white; back and scapulars brownish margined with olive gray; wings and tail dull brown

or olive brown; wing coverts rufous brown.
Length, 15.40; Wing, 6.55; Tarsus, 2.25; Bill, 2.50.

Rallus elegans. Rallus virginianus.

This species inhabits the fresh water marshes of Eastern United States

from New England southward.
It is not uncommon in Florida, where it breeds. The eggs are generally
from nine to twelve, pale brownish white, spotted with reddish brown.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 265

Fe i RALLUS VIRGINIANUS Zinn,
Virginia Rail.

Adult : Having somewhat the appearance of a very small King Rail; upper parts are
dusky or blackish ; feathers edged with grayish brown; wings brownish ; under parts dark rufous
brown; throat white ; lores ashy white, shading into gray on the cheeks; flanks and under tail
_coverts barred and spotted with white and black.

_ Length, 9.40; Wing, 4.25; Tarsus, 1.35; Bill, 1.55.

Ranges throughout North America from the British Provinces south to
Central America and Cuba. It breeds from New England northward on the
Atlantic coast, the nest being made of grass, and the eggs are six to twelve,

pale brownish white, spotted with reddish brown.

RALLUS LONGIROSTRIS CREPITANS ne Ds
Clapper Rail.

Adult; Upper parts dull olive ; feathers edged with gray ; throat white; breast pale grayish

brown; rest of under parts scavish brown barred with white on nthe sides ; pe coverts cinna-
mon frown tinged with gray.

Length, 14.75; Wing, 5.10; Tarsus, 2.10; Bill, 2.60.

266 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

This species differs from the King Rail in being much grayer on the
upper parts and paler on the under parts. The Clapper Rail prefers salt
water marshes. It ranges on the Atlantic coast from New Jersey south-
ward, but has been recorded from Massachusetts. It is not uncommon in
Florida, but is probably replaced in nearly all the Gulf States by the local —
form, known as Scott’s Rail. The nestis a little grass on salt water marshes ;
eggs are from eight to twelve, pale brownish white spotted with dark brown.

RALLUS LONGIROSTRIS SCOTTII (Sezz.).
Florida Clapper Rail. Scott’s Rail.

Adult: Similar to the preceding species but darker in color and more brownish above;
breast rufous brown; flanks blackish. Both this and the Clapper Rail differ from the King
Rail in the color of the wing coverts, which are much more highly colored in that species.

Range: Gulf coast of Florida.

GEeNuS PORZANA VIEILL.
Suscenus PORZANA.,

PORZANA CAROLINA (Zinzn.).

Sora. Carolina Rail,

Above reddish brown, streaked with black and some of the feath-
ers edged with white; flanks and linings of the wings barred with
white and black; abdomen dull white; a stripe of black passing
from the bill down the center of the throat but not reaching the
breast; whole of the breast, a cheek patch and superciliary line
slate color; crown chestnut with a black stripe through the center ;
carpus edged with white; crissum rufous, shading into whitish.

Length, 7.75; Wing, 4.20: Tail, 2; Tarsus, 1.38; Bill, .75.

Ranges from temperate North America south in
winter to Northern South America; it is common in
Florida during the migrations. It breeds from Long
Island northward; the eggs are from ten to fifteen
in.number, pale brownish white spotted with dark

brown.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, 267

SuscENus COTURNICOPS Bonar.

PORZANA NOVEBORACENSIS (Gme/.).
Yellow Rail.

Above, streaked with blackish and yellowish brown; feathers
barred and mottled with white ; under parts yellowish brown, palest
on the belly; feathers of the breast tipped with dark brown; under
surface of wings white; a pale yellowish brown superciliary stripe.

Length, 6; Wing, 3 to 3.50; Tarsus, .go to 1.00.

This species ranges from Hudson’s Bay to Cuba.
It is not uncommon in Florida. I have seen several
specimens which have been killed by people while
snipe shooting. I have shot two specimens on the
; marshes bordering the St. John’s River. The eggs
are described as pale, creamy buff in color, speckled and sprinkled with

SuBGENUS CRECISCUS Casanis.

PORZANA JAMAICENSIS (Gme/.).
Black Rail.

Top of the head dusky; nape and upper back brownish
chestnut; rest of back and upper tail feathers dusky or smoky
brown finely barred with white; throat gray or ash gray; belly
gray; flanks and lower belly and under tail coverts banded with
white; bill black.

Length, 5; Wing, 2.50 to 3.20; Tarsus, .85 to .go.

This species occurs in temperate North America
from Massachusetts to the West Indies and South
America. It is very retiring in its habits and
‘therefore seldom seen. The eggs are usually
ten, being dull white speckled with reddish brown. I have never met
with it in Florida, but Mr. W. E. D. Scott records it in his list of the birds

_ of the Caloosahatchie region. (Auk, p. 209, 1892.)

268 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SUBFAMILY GALLINULINAE. GaLuinu_Les.

Genus JONORNIS Rercu.
IONORNIS MARTINICA (LZinn.).

Purple Gallinule.

Adult male: Head, neck, and under parts bluish
purple, grading into black on the belly; above olive;
wing coverts bluish ; back olive ; crissum white; frontal
plate of the bill blue; bill red tipped with yellow; legs
yellow.

Length, 11; Wing, 6.50; Tail, 2.65; Tarsus, 2.30.

This species is resident in Florida and
has been taken on the Atlantic coast as far
north as Maine. Ranges in winter to the
West Indies and Northern South America.

The eggs are eight to ten, pale buffy white, dotted with brownish. The
nest is a mat of grass on reeds or in marshes.

Genus GALLINULA Brisson.
GALLINULA GALEATA (Licht.).

Florida Gallinule.

Head blackish; bill tipped with green, rest of bill
and frontal plate deep red; upper back slaty; lower
back and wings olive brown; under parts dark slate
color ; lower belly grayish ; feathers faintly tipped with
white ; some of the feathers on thesides having the
inner webs white near the tip, giving the appearance
of white stripes; under tail coverts black;
tail white and black; legs olive green, reddish
near the body.

Length, 13; Wing,6.60; Tail, 3.10; Tarsus,

23 Bill, including frontal shield, 1.75; Bill,
«4 from gape, 1.25.

Ranges throughout temperate and tropical America
from Canada to South America. It is a common resi-
dent in Florida and has been known to breed as far
north as Maine. The nest is built in marshes, being a mass of grass or

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 269

SuBFAMILY FULICINA. Coors.

Genus FULICA Linn.

Fulica americana. Fulica americana (foot).

FULICA AMERICANA Gwme/.
American Coot. Mud-hen.

_ Adult: General plumage dark slate color; head and neck blackish; bill whitish marked
with reddish black on the upper mandible; frontal plate brownish white; legs and feet dark
Olive, the toes having peculiar semicircular flaps or webs; abdomen grayish; edge of wing and

ends of secondaries white.
Length, 14.75; Wing, 7.45; Tail, 2.30; Bill, from front edge of frontal plate, 1.40.

It ranges in North America from New Brunswick south to the West
_ Indies and Central America, being common in Florida, where it is resident.
| It breeds inthe marshes. The eggs are from eight to fifteen, which are
pale brownish white in color and marked with dark chocolate brown.

This species may be easily distinguished from the Gallinule by the
_ peculiar rounded flaps or webs on the toes, and by the different color of the

frontal plate.

270 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

ORDER LIMICOLAL

SHORE Birps.

Famity PHALAROPODID. PHALAROPES.

GENUS CRYMOPHILUS Vier.

CRYMOPHILUS FULICARIUS (Linn.).
Red Phalarope. Gray Phalarope.

Adult male in summer: General under parts
and sides of the neck purplish brown; upper tail
coverts purplish brown slightly darker than the —
under parts; crown of the head and base of the bill
smoky black; sides of the head white extending to
the nape; rump white; back black ; feathers edged
with tawny brown; primaries dusky, the shafts
being white and the base of the feathers white;
some of the secondaries white; bill yellowish brown,
dark on the tip; feet dull yellow.

Adult in winter: Head and under parts white,
a small patch around the eye and a nuchal crest
dusky; the under parts of the body are tinged with
ashy gray on the sides; upper parts grayish ash
color; wings showing a distinct white bar; bill
dusky; feet brownish.

Length, 7.45 3 Wing, 5; Tail, 2.50; Bill, .o4; Tarsus, .70.

This is a maritime species which ranges from the far north, where it
breeds, southward to the Middle States. It is claimed to be occasionally
seen off the coast of Florida, and I once purchased a stuffed specimen
(which may or may not have been taken in Florida) from a dealer in Jack-
sonville, with a number of other skins of Florida birds.

The eggs are laid on the ground, the nest being formed of a little grass,
and are from three to four in number, pale olive marked with chocolate
brown.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 271

_ Fairy RECURVIROSTRIDA. Avocers anv Stirts.

GeNuS RECURVIROSTRA Linvy.

Recurvirostra americana.

oe RECURVIROSTRA AMERICANA Ginc/.

American Avocet.

genie becoming cinnamon brown on the head and peti but remaining whitish at the
of the ar | primaries pare} most a the secondaries white, forming a broad white patch

Adult in suser - : Head and most oy the neck dishy gray ; tail ashy gray ; rest as in summer

“Length, 18 to 20; Wing, 7.50 to 9; Tail, 3.50; Bill, 3.25 to 3.75; Tarsus, 3.60.
_ This is a western species which ranges from the Great Slave Lake

Atlantic coast north of Florida. Stragglers have been recorded as far north
as the Bay of Fundy, but it is a very rare bird in New England.

_ The eggs are from three to four in number, pale grayish olive spotted
with very dark brown.

272 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Genus HIMANTOPUS Briss.

Himantopus mexicanus.

HIMANTOPUS MEXICANUS (Miil/.).
Black=necked Stilt.

Adult: Top and sides of the head and back of the neck and back black; under eyelid and
a spot above and behind the eye, forehead and sides of the head under the eye white; rest of
under parts with the rump and upper tail coverts white; tail ash gray or pearl gray; bill black;
legs red in life.

The immature bird has the upper parts brownish ; feathers edged with whitish; wings black-
ish, some of the feathers tipped with white; wing coverts edged with buff or tawny brown;
under parts white mottled with black and tawny brown.

Length, 15.50; Wing, 9; Tail, 3; Tarsus, 4.25; Bill, 2.70.

This species is common throughout tropical America, occasionally being
found in the Mississippi Valley as far north as Minnesota. It is accidental
on the Atlantic coast north of Florida and Southern Georgia, although it
has been recorded as far north as Long Island. It is common in Florida
after April first, and breeds in the State.

The eggs are laid on the ground, sometimes on a little grass, and again
without any nest whatever. They are three to four in number and pale
brown or dull white, spotted and marked with chocolate brown.

‘xn

Pe ee em OY

india

Ey, ain

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 273

Famity SCOLOPACID/E. Swipes, SANDPIPERS, ETC.
Genus PHILOHELA Gray.

PHILOHELA [1IINOR (Gmel.).
American Woodcock.

Adult: Billlong, corrugated near the end ; upper parts variegated with tawny rufous brown
and black; head rufous brown, banded on the occiput with alternate bands of black and tawny
brown ; a line of black from the eye to the bill; a narrow patch on the sides of the lower head,
blackish; throat pale rufous or rufous white; under parts of the body pale rufous; quills
_ brownish; tail feathers dusky tipped with ash; bill pale brown, yellowish at the base; legs red-
dish; bill light brown; paler and yellowish at base. :
Length, 11.50; Wing, 5.45; Tarsus, 1.30; Bill, 2.90 to 3.05.

Common on the Atlantic coast from Labrador to the Gulf of Mexico, -
breeding, as a rule, north of the Carolinas. It is occasionally observed in
Florida in winter and is very abundant in the swamps of Alabama and
Louisiana at some seasons. The eggs are usually four, mottled and spotted

with brown.

Genus GALLINAGO LeEacu.

GALLINAGO DELICATA (Ord).
Wilson’s Snipe. English Snipe.
Bill long and straight, being slightly enlarged near the tip and showing numerous small pits ;

no web on toes ; general upper parts dark brown, tawny brown, pale yellow, dull white; top of
the head black with middle stripe of tawny brown; outer web of first primary white; greater

274 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

wing coverts brownish or dusky with white tips; axilars and under surface of wings barred with
biack; upper tail coverts tawny brown barred with black; tail feathers chestnut brown with
subterminal black bar; tips white and feathers marked with black at the base; under parts
white; breast and throat speckled and lined with brown; sides of the body brownish barred
with dull black.

Length, 11; Wing, 5; Tail, 2.20; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 2.40 to 2.60.

Gallinago delicata.
Ranges from Hudson Bay and Labrador south to South America. Breeds
from New England northward. This species is common in Florida in win-
ter, where it is found in great numbers on the fresh water marshes. It is
common on the New England coast in the spring and fall, and occasionally
a few remain to breed.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 275

| The eggs are pale buff color spotted with chocolate brown, more nu-
merously at the larger ends; bill brown (greenish gray in life), paler at base
and darker toward the end.

Genus MACRORHAMPHUS Leacu.

MACRORHAMPHUS GRISEUS (Gmc/.).
Dowitcher. Red-breasted Snipe.

Adult in summer: A small web between the inner
toes; upper parts blackish; feathers edged with tawny
brown; top of head blackish mottled with tawny
brown; under parts red brown, banded on the sides;
throat and breast only slightly spotted, entirely with-
out spots in some plumages; tail and tail coverts
barred with black. Bill dark olive.

Jn winter: Upper parts grayish, feathers showing
faint edges of buff on the back; chin and superciliary
stripe dull grayish white; breast gray, showing slight
traces of tawny; rest of under parts dirty white, mot-
tled on the crissum; tail banded black and white.

Length, 10.30; Wing, 5.70; Tarsus, 1.30; Bill, 2.20
to 2.50.

Ranges from the Arctic Circle to South America; common during the
migrations, being common in winter in Florida. It breeds in the far north,
eggs being pale buff or dull olive mottled and speckled with dark brown.

MACRORHAMPHUS SCOLOPACEUS (Say.).
Long-billed Dowitcher. Western Red-breasted Snipe.

Resembles the preceding species, but the bill is longer and the sides of the body are more
distinctly barred with black ; the principal difference is one of size.
Length, 11; Wing, 6.05; Tarsus, 1.55; Bill, 2.20 to 2.60,

This is a western species, which occasionally occurs on the Atlantic
coast. It is a common bird in Florida in winter. The eggs are similar in
coloration to those of the preceding species.

276 KEY TO. THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Gpxus MICROPALAMA Baio.

MICROPALAMA HIMANTOPUS (Sonap.).
Stilt Sandpiper.

Adult in summer: Legs long; entire plumage dull

with dark brown and the upper parts streaked with dark
brown; a stripe of chestnut brown above and below the eye, the former
extending backwards and joining at the occiput ; secondaries edged with
tawny brown.

Adult in winter: Upper plumage gray; feathers on the back edged
with white; breast pale buff slightly mottled, shading into dull white on
the upper throat; belly duli white; bill black.

Length, 8.20; Wing, 5; Tarsus, 1.65; Bill, 1.60.

This species ranges from the Arctic Circle to South America, being
abundant on the Atlantic coast during the migrations ; it is common in Flor-
ida. It has the general appearance of a very diminutive Summer Yellow-
legs, having olive green legs instead of yellow.

It breeds in the far north; the eggs are pale buffy white, spotted with
brown.

Genus TRINGA Linn.

Suscenus TRINGA,

TRINGA CANUTUS Zinn.
Knot. Robin Snipe.

Male in summer: Under parts except lower
belly reddish brown; lower belly white; a stripe
of reddish brown over the eye; back and wing
coverts mottled gray, black and tawny.

Adult in winter: Entire upper parts ashy gray;
the shafts of the feathers on the back showing dark
brown; a superciliary stripe, dull white; throat
white; breast showing slight gray marking; belly
white; legs black; bill black.

This species breeds in the Arctic
regions, occurring on the Atlantic coast during migrations; it is common

_—

white and dark brown, being banded on the under parts —

Length, 10.60; Wing, 6.70; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, 1.30.

2 i z
i a

ae Fes at ee

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 277

in Florida in fall and spring, a few remaining all winter. The eggs are
described as being light pea green in color, finely spotted with brown.

Suscenus ARQUATELLA Bairp.

TRINGA MARITIMA JPriinn.
Purple Sandpiper.

Adult: Upper parts gray, showing slight purplish
reflections when held in the light; breast gray ; throat
grayish white; belly white, marked with gray on the
sides ; bill brown, yellow at base.

Length, 9.25; Wing, 5; Tarsus, .92; Bill, 1.30.

The Purple Sandpiper is a northern spe-
cies, breeding in high latitudes, but occur-
ring in winter on the Atlantic coast south
a to Florida, where it is by no means com-_
mon, a specimen being occasionally taken on the west coast. Some birds
remain on the New England coast all winter. |
_ The eggs are buff, sometimes tinged with olive and mottled with brown.

Suscenus ACTODROMAS Kavp.

TRINGA MACULATA Jéeii/.
Pectoral Sandpiper. Grass Bird.

Head and upper parts brown, the feathers edged with
tawny; throat and belly white; breast pale brown, the
feathers narrowly streaked with dark brown; upper
tail coverts black; basal half of bill dull greenish
yellow.

Length, 9; Wing, 5.25; Tarsus, 1.05; Bill, 1.15.

This species ranges from the Arctic regions
to South America, being common on the
Atlantic coast during migrations. It breeds
in the far north.

The eggs are greenish buff, mottled with
brown, heaviest at the larger end.

278 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

TRINGA FUSCICOLLIS Vied?/.
White-rumped Sandpiper.

Adult in summer: Top of the head and back mottled
with black, dull white, and buff ; throat white ; breast finely
lined with dark brown; belly white ; an imperfect super-
ciliary line of dull white, rump dusky gray and most of
upper tail coverts white.

Adult in winter: Top of the head and back grayish,
some of the feathers marked with dark brown, giving it a
slightly mottled appearance on the back and top of the
head ; upper throat white ; breast ashy gray, the shafts of
the feathers showing brown; belly white; forehead whit-
ish, extending in an imperfect superciliary line.

Length, 6.85; Wing, 4.95; Tarsus, .95; Bill, .95.

This species may be distinguished by the
white upper tail coverts. It ranges from the Arctic regions south to South
America and the West Indies. It breeds in high latitudes; the eggs are
buff or olive, spotted and dotted with dark brown.

TRINGA MINUTILLA Fiei/7.
Least Sandpiper.

Adult in summer: Very small; upper parts
marked with tawny black and pale buff; under
parts whitish on the throat, shading inte ashy
gray, showing faint brownish lines on the breast ;
rest of the under parts white; bill dull black.
LVo web between toes.

Adult in winter: Similar to the above but

' grayer in color.

Length, 5.50to 6.50; Wing, 3.60; Tarsus, .75 ;

Bill, .85.

The Least Sandpiper may be distinguished from the Semi-
palmated Sandpiper by the absence of the small web between
the toes, so noticeable in that species. .

Common throughout North and South America, breeding
north of the United States. Eggs are three to four, generally
pale buff mottled with chestnut brown.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 279
SuspceNus PELIDNA Cvuv.

TRINGA ALPINA PACIFICA (Cowes).
Red=-backed Sandpiper,

Adult in summer: The feathers on the top of the head and
back bright rufous brown heavily blotched with black on the
central part of each feather; throat whitish ; breast streaked

_ with black; belly black on the upper part, becoming white on
the lower belly and crissum ; bill black.

Adult in winter: Upper parts gray, slightly mottled ;
throat white; breast gray, the shafts of the feathers dark
brown; belly and under tail coverts pure white; a.faint dull
white superciliary line.

Length, 8; Wing, 4.75; Tarsus, 1.10; Bill, 1.65.
Se Ranges throughout North America, breeding far northward. It occurs

on the Atlantic coast during migrations.
The eggs are buffy white, sometimes bluish white, mottled with chocolate

_at the larger end.

Suscenus ANCYLOCHEILUS Kavp.

Genus EREUNETES Ic ticer.

EREUN ETES PUSILLUS (Zinn.). eng pusillus

foot).

Semipalmated Sandpiper. °

Adult in summer: Heavily marked with dark brown
and tawny on the top of the head and back; forehead
whitish ; under parts and throat white; breast mottled with
grayish ; belly white; foes with small web.

Adult in winter : Upper parts grayish, mottled with brown
on the head, and the feathers showing dark brown edged with
white on the back; throat white; breast very faintly washed
with gray, which is sometimes very indistinct; belly and
under tail coverts white ; Zoes with small web.

Length, 6.25; Wing, 3.70; ‘Tarsus, .75; Bill, 80.
Ranges from Labrador southward to the West Indies, and is common on
the Atlantic coast during migrations. This species may be distinguished

- from the Least Sandpiper by the partly webbed toes.

280 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

The eggs are buff white, mottled with brown and chocolate brown,
heaviest on the larger end.

EREUNETES OCCIDENTALIS Zawir.
Western Semipalmated Sandpiper.

This species may he distinguished from £. puszllus by its longer bill, which is oftentimes
1.25 inches in length, while 2. Ausz//us rarely if ever has the billone inchin length. Occasionally
examples of the Western Sandpiper have the bill less than one inch, and in such cases it is
almost impossible to distinguish them from the winter examples of Z. pusz//us ; therefore it is
perhaps as well for the sportsmen to consider all of those birds having bills less than one inch
in length to be Z. Ausz//us, and if it is important to have the identification absolutely accurate,
they could easily obtain the opinion of some professional ornithologist to settle such a fine point.

Adult in summer: A small web between the toes; top of head brown; back reddish
brown; the feathers marked with black and some of them tipped and edged with white; rump
smoky black; under parts white, showing a faint tawny tinge on the breast.

Adult in winter : Top of head and back gray, showing brown on the shafts of the feathers
forehead and under parts dull white; the breast faintly lined with grayish brown, sometimes
entirely wanting.

Bill black, becoming greenish olive on basal part of the mandible.

Length, 6.50; Wing, 3.85; Tarsus, .82; Bill, .go to 1.15.

Occasionally occurs on the Atlantic coast, although its home is properly
in the West. It is common in Florida in winter, more so on the West than
on the East coast.

The eggs are pale buff dotted with dark brown.

Genus CALIDRIS Cvuv.

CALIDRIS ARENARIA (Zzmz.).
Sanderling. Bull-peep.

parts, except rump, reddish brown, black and white;
belly and under parts pure white.

Adult in winter: Top of the head and back
ash gray, the shafts of the feathers being brown;
forehead and entire under parts white ; bill black.

Length, 8.10 ; Wing, 5.05; Tarsus, 1; Bill, 1.

This species may always be distin-
guished by the absence of the fourth
toe, being the only Sandpiper occurring

on our coast having three toes. It is

ee sh ge ik lass

Adult in summer: UHead, throat, and upper

x . od
al Bab Oasis

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 281

common during migrations, ranging from the Arctic regions to the West
____ Indies and South America. The eggs are light olive and buff, spotted with
brown.

Genus LIMOSA Brisson.

LIMOSA FEDOA (/izn.).
Marbled Godwit.

Adult in summer: Bill curved slightly upward ; upper parts mottled with black and tawny ;
upper throat white, rest of throat finely streaked with brown; breast pale tawny, the feathers
banded irregularly with brown; belly tawny, sometimes without bands; bill dull flesh color in its
basal half, the rest blackish. :

Adult in winter: Top of the head brown streaked with pale brown; feathers of the back
dark brown edged with tawny; chin white; throat pale buff faintly lined with brown; under
parts reddish buff; sides faintly barred with brown.

- Length, 19; Wing, 8.80; Tarsus, 2.80; Bill, 3.50 to 4.50.

Limosa fedoa.

This species breeds in the interior from the Missouri region northward.
It occurs in winter south to Florida and Cuba, but is not abundant anywhere
on the Atlantic coast.

The eggs are described as being from three to four in number and of a
dull brownish ash color, blotched and mottled with gray and grayish brown.

282 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

LIMOSA HAEMASTICA (Zinzn.).

Hudsonian Godwit.

Adult in summer: Bill slightly curved up; top of the head dusky, showing. pale brown
streaks; back black, the feathers spotted with tawny brown. Upfer tail coverts white; chin —
whitish dotted with dusky; throat reddish brown streaked with brown; under parts dark rufous
brown, faintly and irregularly banded with black. Bill grayish yellow, dark brown along the
ridge of the upper mandible, and blackish towards the tips of both.

Adult in winter: General plumage grayish; top of the head gray mottled with brown; back
gray; some of the feathers tipped with dark brown and indistinctly edged with dull whitish;
upper tail coverts white ; chin white; throat ash gray; under parts grayish white.

Length, 15.50; Wing, 8.30; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill, 3 to 3.40.

Ranges in Eastern North America from the far North south to South
America. It is becoming less common every year, although at one time it
was an abundant species, during the migrations, on our coast.

Breeds in the far North; the eggs are described as dark brownish olive
lined and spotted with dark brown.

Genus TOTANUS Becusr.
Suscenus GLOTTIS Kocu.

TOTANUS NEBULARIUS (Gunn.).
Green=-shank.

This species has the general appearance of a Winter Yellow-leg (Zotanus melanoleucus),
although the marking is somewhat different. It is a very rare bird on our coast, there being
no actual record since Audubon’s time, who states that specimens were taken in Florida, near

Cape Sable. It may easily be distinguished by the greenish-gray legs and the dusky-green
bill, which is dark at the tip, and the white rump.

Length, 14; Wing, 7.20; Bill, 2.30 to 2.50; Tarsus, 2.30.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 283

TOTANUS MELANOLEUCUS (Gmel.).
Greater Yellow-legs. Winter Yellow-legs.

_ Adult in summer: Bill nearly straight; upper plumage mottled with white and black ; throat

_ white streaked with black; chin whitish; breast white heavily streaked with black; rest of

- under parts white tewuilarly marked with hiaeks middle of belly nearly always pure white: bill
black and legs yellow.

Lege Adult in winter: Top of the head and neck streaked white and dark brown; back brown,
the feathers narrowly edged with whitish; chin white; breast white, narrowly lined with dark
brown; rest of under parts white; bill black and legs yellow.

Length, 14.50; Wing, 7.80; Tarsus, 2.50; Bill, 2.30
Common in Eastern North America from the Arctic region southward to

_ South America. It is abundant on the Atlantic coast during migrations ;

~ common in Florida in winter.

The eggs are pale buffy brown spotted with dark brown.

TOTANUS FLAVIPES (Gmc.)
’ Summer Yellow-legs.

Upper parts grayish brown mottled with whitish
on the back; chin white; throat white streaked with
pale grayish brown; breast mottled, belly white; tail
feathers banded brown and white; bill black; legs
yellow.

Length, 10.80; Wing, 6.45; Tarsus, 2.10; Bill, 1.45.

Ranges from the sub-Arctic regions
southward to South America. Breeds in.
the interior from Minnesota and _ Illinois
northward. The eggs are pale buff dotted
and blotched with dark brown and chocolate brown. ‘This is a well-known

284 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

species on our coast during the migrations. It is common in Florida in
winter, especially during migrations.

SUBGENUS ,RHYACOPHILUS Kavp.

TOTANUS SOLITARIUS ( /Vis.).
Solitary Sandpiper.

Adult in summer: Top of head and back bronzy green dotted with white; under parts
white ; the breast thickly streaked and dotted with brown; bill greenish brown (in life), dusky
terminally.

Adult in winter: Upper parts olive brown, showing a faint greenish gloss when held in the
light, the feathers faintly dotted with dull white; throat white; breast streaked with brown 3
rest of under parts white.

Length, 8.50; Wing, 5.30; Tarsus, 1.20; Bill, 1.30.

Totanus solitarius.

This species ranges from the sub-Arctic regions southward to South
America. It usually occurs on our Atlantic coast during the migrations, and
is not uncommon in Florida. It breeds from Pennsylvania and Illinois 4
northward. The eggs, which are described from a single specimen taken Ne
by Jenness Richardson, in Vermont, and described by Dr. Brewer, are light
drab with small rounded brown markings, having a few faint purplish marks F
on the larger end.

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, 285

Genus SYMPHEMIA Rar.

SYMPHEIMIA SEMIPALMATA (Gie/.).
Willet:

Adultin summer: Upper plumage gray, streaked on the head with dark brown, and the
central portion of many of the feathers has the back blotched with brown; chin white; throat

__ white dotted with brown; under parts dull white, the feathers on the sides barred with brown
and washed with tawny; axillars black; bill bluish, dusky toward end. ~

Adult in winter: Bill nearly straight, upper plumage gray, showing faint indications of

whitish on the tips of some of the feathers on the back; chin whitish ; throat ashy gray; the
rest of under parts white, showing ashy on the sides of the body. The broad white band on the
wings is a distinguishing character of this bird when flying, formed by the basal portion of
the primaries and some of the secondaries being white.

Length, 15.50; Wing, 8.10; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill, 2 to 2.30.

Symphemia semipalmata.

Ranges from temperate South America south to the West Indies and
South America.

It breeds from New England to Florida, although it does not breed
commonly north of the Carolinas. It is a very common species in Florida,

286 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

where it frequents the beaches and marshes, and may be easily distinguished — ;

by its broad white wing band and peculiar whistle.

It is not likely to be confounded with any species, but a very good —

distinguishing character is the black axillars.

The eggs are three in number, sometimes four, deposited on the ground .
with scarcely any indication of a nest. They are pale buff in color, spotted —
\ ,

with chocolate brown, heaviest on the larger end.

SYMPHEMIA SEMIPALMATA INORNATA JArewisz.
Western Willet.

General resemblance to the preceding species, but the upper parts are paler and not so

heavily marked with black; the breast shows usually more buff color. In winter plumage it —
resembles the eastern form except in size, the bill usually being longer and the bird somewhat —

larger.

Length, 15.60; Wing, 8.50; Tarsus, 2.55; Bill, 2.30 to 2.80. ;

It is a western species common in Florida in winter, its true range
being from Texas to Manitoba.

GENuS BARTRAMIA Less.

BARTRAMIA LONGICAUDA (Bechs?.).

Bartram’s Sandpiper. Upland Plover.

Adult: Head, upper parts, and breast mottled brown and
tawny; belly white; first primary barred with white.

/n winter the bird is paler in coloration; throat white.

Length, 11.75 ; Wing, 6.60; Tarsus, 1.90; Bill, 1.20.

This species occurs in Eastern North
America, from Nova Scotia south to South
America. It is not very common anywhere
on the Atlantic coast nowadays, although at
one time it was an abundant species. It
occurs in Florida in winter. A good diag-
nostic character of this species is the barred primary. It breeds from Vir-
ginia northward. The eggs are four to five in number, of a pale brownish
color, mottled with chocolate brown near the larger end.

aceite : soos te ay Rigs
tit ‘ SEWr =! oe Ng a Se et NN SN Ae Ee eee oc ny oe ee ee
TSN er EN ee ee ae A ge ON eee co Bee is cas ae stl tinct : , ‘
Pa Fe iets ee et LG, ee eh, (oie; a

af OS. r :

CAL UVEA One Soe ten

veal see!
Pe ee ee a4

we aoa
abe

pas ial hp SEES ke

ee ae

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 287

GeNus TRYNGITES Cananis.

TRYNGITES SUBRUFICOLLIS ( Vieil/.).
Buff-breasted Sandpiper.

Adult in breeding plumage: Entire upper parts mottled with black and tawny brown,
the feathers being black in the center and broadly edged with tawny; under parts pale rufous
mottled with whitish.

Adult in winter plumage: Top of the head and nape pale tawny dotted with brown;
feathers of the back blackish, narrowly edged with white; under parts pale buff, becoming
whitish on the belly, faintly mottled with brownish on the sides of the
breast. /uner webs of primaries speckled.

Length, 8; Wing, 5.30; Tarsus, 1.25; Bill, .85.

Not abundant on the Atlantic coast, usually ranging
in the interior. It breeds from British America north-
ward. It ranges in winter south to South America,
being found on our coast during migrations.

The eggs are described as from three to four; pale buff white, spotted
and lined with dark brown and purplish brown.

Genus ACTITIS Icticer.

ACTITIS MACULARIA (Zinn).
Spotted Sandpiper.

Adult in summer: ‘Top of the head and back olive

green, showing bronzy reflections when held in the
light; some of the feathers on the back irregularly
marked with brown; under parts white, marked with
large spots of black.
- Adult in.winter: Above olive, showing a bronzy
luster when held in the light; feathers on the back
faintly tipped with dusky; wing coverts narrowly
banded with tawny; throat white ; breast, under parts,
including belly and under tail coverts, white; mandi-
ble and edge of the maxilla pale wax yellow (in life),
rest of bill black.

Length, 8; Wing, 4.20; Tarsus, 1; Bill, 1. ~

Ranges from Hudson Bay to South America. It is a very well-known
bird on our coast, being usually seen alone or in pairs. It is common on

288 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

small streams of fresh water and also on sand beaches, usually selecting
rocky places. It breeds nearly throughout its range, the eggs being buff
white or pale brown spotted with dark brown, mostly on the larger end.

GeNuS NUMENIUS Brisson.

Numenius longirostris.

NUMENIUS LONGIROSTRIS Wis.
Long=-billed Curlew. Sickle-bill.

Adult in summer: Upper parts marked with buff and black; tail feathers alternately
banded with tawny buff and brown; throat whitish; rest of under parts pale reddish brown,
becoming very light on the belly; breast narrowly striped with brown on the middle of the
feathers; bill very long.

Adult in winter: General plumage tawny brown; the back blackish, mottled with buff;
top of the head dark brown; the feathers edged with tawny; throat white; under part pale
buff brown; feathers on the lower throat and upper breast finely lined with dark brown; bill
very long and curved downward; bill black, becoming dull lilac brown on basal half of the
mandible.

Length, 26; Wing, 10.50; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill very variable, measuring from 2.50 to 9.

The immature of this species has the bill nearly straight but quite short, sometimes not ex-
ceeding two inches in length.

Ranges from temperate North America south to Central America and the
West Indies. It breeds in the Southern Atlantic States, but is now not
common on the Atlantic coast, and is becoming less so every year. The
eggs are described as olive gray in color, spotted with chocolate brown.

le Pee a | Wt een oe ee

“4
>
&.
=
Fe
=
E-
a

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA, 289

NUMENIUS HUDSONICUS Zaz.

g i ie ! Hudsonian Curlew.

Adult in summer: Bill curved downward; top of the head brown, with a stripe of buffy

ei white through the middle ; rest of upper parts dark brown; feathers pale on the edges, giving a
a slightly mottled appearance to the back; chin white; throat and breast streaked and faintly
barred with brown and white ; belly dull white; an imperfect superciliary stripe.
E Adult in winter: Similar to the last, but showing much more tawny mottled on the upper
_--_ parts, and the under parts paler; a superciliary stripe of dull white.

Length, 17.50; Wing, 9.20; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill, 3 to 3.75.

Common in North America, south in winter to South America and the
West Indies. Breeds in the far North.

It is one of the well-known birds on the Atlantic coast, occurring dur-
ing the migrations. .

This species may always be distinguished from the Esquimo or Long-
billed Curlew by the buffy stripe on the middle of the crown. The eggs are
described as three or four in number, grayish olive spotted with brown.

290 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

NUMENIUS BOREALIS (Forst.).
Eskimo Curlew. Dough Bird.
Adult in summer: Pill curved down-

ward, general plumage above mottled black
and tawny; chin whitish; throat and under

dark brown and on the breast with arrow-like brown mark-
ings; flanks and sides of the body tawny, the arrow-like
marks being much heavier and larger; top of the head show-
ing no central stripe of buffy white.

Adult in winter: Lacking the tawny color of the summer
plumage; more whitish on the under parts, otherwise the
markings being similar.

Length, 13; Wing, 8.10; Tarsus, 2; Bill, 2.75 to 3.50.

It ranges’ from the Arctic regions, where it
breeds, southward to South America. At one
time it was a very abundant bird on our coast
during the migrations, but is becoming less com-
mon every year. It prefers the fields to the beaches, being often found in
company with the Golden Plover. It is comparatively rare in Florida, but
occurs regularly during migrations. The eggs are pale olive gray spotted
with dark brown, mostly at the larger end.

GENUS CHARADRIUS Linn.
SuBGENUS SQUATAROLA Cvv.

CHARADRIUS SQUATAROLA (Zinzu.).
Black=bellied Plover. Beetle Head.

Adult male in summer: Upper parts smoky black; feathers edged with dull white; breast
black except in highest plumage, showing traces of whitish on the feathers ; abdomen and under
tail coverts white; forehead white; axillars smoky black.

Adult in winter: Upper plumage brownish mottled with gray; under parts white; breast
and sides streaked with ashy brown; bill black.

Length, 11.25; Wing, 7.45; Tarsus, 1.85; Bill, 1.10.

parts tawny buff, marked on the throat with

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 291

Charadrius squatarola (summer plumage).

Charadrius squatarola (winter plumage). Charadrius squatarola (foot).

This species may always be distinguished from the Golden Plover by
presence of a rudimentary hind toe and the black axillars, which are
y in the Golden Plover.

It ranges from the Arctic regions to South America, being common
on the Atlantic coast during migrations. It breeds in the far North; the
gs are usually four, pale olive brown, spotted and speckled with brown

292 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

SuBGENUS CHARADRIUS Liv.

CHARADRIUS DOMINICUS MW/ii//.
American Golden Plover.

Summer Plumage: Back and upper parts smoky black; feathers marked and edged with
yellow and brown; sides of the breast whitish; rest of under parts, throat, and sides of the head,
including eye, black ; forehead whitish, a stripe extending backwards over the eye ; bill black.

Winter plumage: Upper parts brownish, feathers marked with dull tawny or buff; under

parts are dull white streaked with ashy brown or gray on the breast and sides.
Length, 10.25; Wing, 7; Tarsus, 1.55; Bill, .92.

This species may always be distinguished in any plumage from the
Black-breast Plover by the gray axillars and the absence of the small rudi-

mentary hind toe.
It ranges from the Arctic regions to South America, being common on

the coast during migration. It was at one
time abundant in New England in the early
fall, but its numbers have de-
creased greatly within the past
few years. It is not a common
bird in Florida, although it is
occasionally taken in the State.

It breeds in the far North; the
eggs are buff colored or brownish
white mottled and marked with
chocolate brown.

Genus AAGIALITIS Bore.
SuBGENUS OXYECHUS ReEIcu.

AEGIALITIS VOCIFERA (Zinz.).
Killdeer Plover.
Adult: Crown and back brownish gray, feathers tipped with rufous; a ring around the

neck, lores, and a patch on the breast black; forehead white; throat and spot behind the eye ~

and a band around the neck white; lower breast and belly white; tail coverts and rump
bright rufous; tail rufous and gray tipped with black and white; bill black.

Length, 10.65; Wing, 6.55; Tarsus, 1.40; Bill, .75.

The Killdeer Plover ranges on the Atlantic coast from Newfoundland
to the northern part of South America.. It is a rare bird on the New Eng-

ey | Pre

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 293

land coast as a rule. A few years ago there was a great flight of these
birds along the coast of Massachusetts in December, and hundreds of
them were sent to market and sold. I killed several near Hyannis, Mass.,
at that time.

fEgialites vocifera.

The Killdeer is a common bird in Florida. The eggs are pale brownish
white mottled and lined with chocolate brown.

SuscGeNusS AEGIALITIS Bole.

AEGIALITIS SEMIPALIIATA Bonap.
Semipalmated Plover. Ring-neck.

Adult; Forehead white, succeeded by a band of black; rest
of head, back, and wings ashy gray; a dull stripe of blackish
passing from the bill under the eye to the sides of the neck;a
small patch of white back of the eye; a broad band of black on
the breast; rest of under parts white; throat white, extending
around the neck and joining at the back in a very narrow

' stripe ; secondaries tipped with white ; bill black, orange at the
base; a bright orange ring around the eye.

Adult in summer: Toes with small webs.

Length, 6.80; Wing, 4.75; Tarsus, .93; Bill, .50.

Ranges from the Arctic regions to South
America, breeding from Labrador northward. It

Nes
is a common species on our coast during the migrations. The eggs are

usually four, pale brownish white spotted with chocolate brown.

294 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA,

AEGIALITIS MELODA (Ord).
Piping Plover.

Adult in summer: Upper parts ashy; forehead white,

separated from the ash color of the head by a narrow patch

‘of black ; a band on the side of the breast black; under
parts anda ring around the neck white.

the black marking replaced by grayish buff or ashy gray
instead of black. Bill orange at base, tipped with black.
Length, 7.20; Wing, 4.80; Tarsus, .90; Bill, .50.

Ranges from Labrador to the West Indies
and South America. It is a common species
on the New England coast during the migra-
tions, and is a regular winter visitant to Florida, although not abundant.

The Piping Plover breeds from Virginia to Labrador and Newfoundland.
The eggs are dull white marked with dark brown.

AEGIALITIS TIELODA CIRCUMCINCTA Ridew.
Belted Piping Plover.

It is similar to V. me/oda, but differs in having an unbroken black band from the sides
around in front of the neck.

This species occurs on the coast during the migrations. I am not aware
that it has been recorded from Florida, but it no doubt occurs there.

SusBGENUS OCHTHODROMUS Reircu.

AEGIALITIS WILSONIA (Ord.).
Wilson’s Plover.

Adult male: Above ashy brown; forehead white, extending into a faint superciliary stripe
of dull black on the crown; throat white, continuing on the sides of the neck, nearly joining
upon the nape; a black pectoral band, the feathers edged with white, becoming brown upon
the sides; under parts white; two central tail feathers brown, the others showing increasing
markings of white to the outer tail feathers, which are white; bill black (large and stout); legs
pinkish. :

Adult in winter: Similar to the summer plumage, but

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 295

Female and immature birds have the pectoral band brown, and no black on the head.
Length, 7.45; Wing, 4.60; Tail, 1.90; Tarsus, 1.16; Bill, .go.
This is rather a Southern species, but stragglers have been taken as far
north as Nova Scotia.
It breeds from Virginia southward and is a common bird in Florida.
The eggs are usually three in number, dull white dotted and spotted with

chocolate brown.

Egialitis wilsonia. Egialitis montana.

SuBGENuS PODASOCYS CoueEs.

AEGIALITIS MONTANA (Zowzs.). .
Mountain Plover.

Above uniform brownish gray; feathers occasionally edged with tawny brown; under parts
entirely white with the exception of the breast, which at times shows a tinge of gray; a black
loral stripe extending from the bill to the eye, and a black superciliary stripe back of the head,
showing a patch of black; shafts of the first primary white; wing coverts grayish brown,
some of them tipped with white ; bill black ; legs pale brown.

Length, 8.75 ; Wing, 6; Tarsus, 1.60; Bill, .95.

*«’Temperate North America from the great plains westward; accidental
in Florida.” (A.0.U.)

This species has been recorded from Florida, but it is not common in
the State and must be considered as merely an accidental straggler.

The eggs are three to four in number, of olive brown color dotted and

marked with brown.

296 KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA.

Famity APHRIZIDA. Surr BirRpDs AND TURNSTONES,
SuBFAMILY ARENARIINAE. TurnstTones.

Genus ARENARIA Brisson.

ARENARIA INTERPRES (Zinu.).

Turnstone.

Adult in summer: General upper parts mottled and
variegated with black, white, rufous, and tawny; throat
and breast black and white; rest of under parts white;
tail with subterminal band of black tipped with white.

Adult in winter: Above light, streaked and dashed

the jugulem; chin and upper part of the throat white ;
sides of breast like the back ; rest of the under parts white ;
a distinct white band on the wing; rump white, but witha
broad patch of black on the upper tail coverts; tail dark
brown, the tips and basal half of the inner feathers and
nearly two thirds of the outer feathers white ; legs reddish
orange; bill black.

Length, 8.65 ; Wing, 5.70; Tail, 2.60; Tarsus, 1; Bill, .95.

This species ranges from the Arctic regions to South America and is
common during migrations onthe Atlantic coast. It breeds in high latitudes ;
the eggs are pale clay color mottled and lined with dull brown. It isa
common bird in Florida in winter.

Famity HAHMATOPODID. OvySsTER-CATCHERS.

Genus HAEMATOPUS Linn.

HAEMATOPUS PALLIATUS Zzmm.
American Oyster-catcher.

Winter plumage, male: Head and neck blackish or very dark brown; back brown; lower
part of breast and rest of under parts white; eyelids, rump, tips of wing coverts, part of secon-
daries, and basal portion of the tail feathers white; bill orange, darkening at the tip (in summer
deep red); legs flesh color.

Length, 17.40; Wing, 10.05; Tail, 4.35; Tarsus, 2.30; Bill, 3.50.

with dark brown; an imperfect band of dark brownon

KEY TO THE WATER BIRDS OF FLORIDA. 297

Hamatopus palliatus. |

This species occurs on the seacoast of temperate and tropical America,
frequenting the beaches, where it is often met with in pairs or small flocks.
It occasionally occurs as far North as New Jersey. Stragglers have been
taken near Grand Menan, Maine, and on the coast of Massachusetts. It is
a common species in Florida, where it breeds. The eggs are pale brownish
white spotted with chocolate brown.

lentalis
j oT. a
tricolor ruficollis

circumcincta

INDEX.

( LATIN.)

. . . 180, 287 | Arenaria interpres
Sealy Ween epee V3) 2 aie og te ae
« 183, 292, 293 | Arquatella. . .
voce: Wed, 264.1. Aythya ».

eid . 2904 affinis .
2 - 183, 295 americana

é 183, 293 eollarig 3
; . 183, 292 marila nearctica
‘ 183, 294 vallisneria

. 149, 202

’ 157, 225 | Bartramia longicauda .

Botaurine . eens
Botaurus lentiginosus .
Brantas Ger ve res
bernicla .
canadensis
Butorides

Calidris arenaria .
Charadriidz
Charadrius
dominicus
squatarola . .
Charitonetta albeola
Chaulelasmus
Chen Rey
ceerulescens. .
hyperborea nivalis
Ciconiz ee
PCOMNAS 660s ae

- Clangula hyemalis

Colymbus auritus

Coturnicops
ReTECISCUS | 68 Fs
Crymophilus fulicarius
Cygnine ..

Cyrtopelicanus . >?
Cymodroma grallaria .

Dafila acuta 5
Dichromanassa ... .
Diomedea exulans
Diomedeide . . .
Dysporus . .

Ereunetes . . . ;
occidentalis ..
pusillus.

Krismatura rubida

182,

184, 296
£2896
BEE ro 3
I 5 226
161, 229
162, 226
162, 229
161, 228

I 59% 227

178, 286

ars: 3
171, 247
164, 239
165, 240
164, 239
=e eS

180, 280
182, 290
290, 292
183, 292
182, 290
162, 231
ako

| 164, 237

156, 223

165, 237
104, 237
ae
168, 246
161, 232
141, 185
ih OF
<< aOy.
Beery
165, 240

- 206
149, 203

Een Lt
148, 201
148, 201
(ot LOO:

179, 279
179, 280

oy 180, 279

162, 236

300

Plonda. G25 0%.

Fregata aquila

Fregatide . ..

Fulica americana

VON crest > oii ae nla i ee
LOSES bE Ses a8 2) i ae a
Unc 5 OE Saas Ha tr
Fuligula

Gallinago delicata
Gallinula galeata
Gallinuline
Garzetta ..
Gelochelidon nilotica
Glaucionetta clangula americana
Ce CEL anak Sen ae Sr ae aa
Ee Ca ee
Gruide.. .
Grus .
americana
mexicana
Guarani!
alba’.
rubra .

Hematopodide . 3
Heematopus palliatus .

Herodias ek

Herodii . :

Hierodiones. ..°.

Himantopus mexicanus
Hydranassa 5
Hydrochelidon nigra surinamensis

Phe OS CURES restate a
Ibididae

Ionornis martinica .

Laride .

Larine .

haxus> os y
argentatus smithsonianus -
atricilla :
delawarensis
marinus . .
pee

Limicolz

limosa .
fedoa .
hzmastica

Longipennes .

Lophodytes cucullatus

Macrorhamphus .
griseus
-scolopaceus
Mareca .
Melanitta
Merganser .

46%;

“167,

americana
serrator .

. Merging).
Micropalama himantopus.

Netliogives °°.
Numenius .
borealis
hudsonicus .
longirostris .
Nyctherodius
Nycticorax
nycticorax nevius
violaceus

Oceanites oceanicus
Ochthodromus
Odontoglossz

_ Oidemia

americana

deglandi .

perspicillata
Olor columbianus
(Pavers ei os te

Paludicolz

Pelecanidz

Pelecanus . Z
erythrorhynchos
fuscus

Pelidna .

Pelionetta . :

Phaéthon flavirostris

Phaéthontidze

Phalacrocroacidz

Phalacrocorax dilophus floridanus

Phalaropodidz
Phalaropus lobatus
Philohela minor .
Pheenicopteridz .
Phoenicopterus ruber
Plataleide .
Plegadis

autumnalis

guarauna
Podasocys .
Podidcipidze
Podilymbus podiceps

_ Porzana

carolina

jamaicensis |

noveboracensis
Procellariide .
Puffinus

auduboni

FOAION oes as
Pygopodes

Querquedula .

INDEX. : 301

ieee 654 Stemine 2 Pe, 145, 194
Selecta L735 204) bi eae) BO, BOG

Shah SN Wy Bee PMNBANA hs Nie a Ss RR OO
oe. 193, Oe GVONOPS © ks eiiey se, 6 oe
fai. «173, 204 Piscator 5. UNG ce a oe Ree

igre. | ARS ae Bile Re ee ee ia
op 2 oh BR Oa ak. Opa i
Cee dy Oy peemempnemia fs ie as olen, «0 eee
en Ws»: SI Oe semipalmata; s)-0.0¢6) (ce BBS
eee elevate. ROO. Gat ero inemata: --- 3. 4b. abo 2eG

Bray LAO
Se 6 an Ry, BOOP b> MART ge Ne ce elk | an gk
Cn wie ees 200°): Rentalas loculator (000. °°. ee). ees
Peta ei VO a ee

URN erg Rawines 6a er pala ee

Sy at Re ae melanoleucus 3. af sh BA SBS

si white Pega? ae =e Sea nebularius 02665, Po es. ee eg Oe

PT ATER OE Sen et a nie MEET URE E ANG es ie

poe oS ok RI EE EMRIs da te aS) er

gy igel hae aS, Be alpina pacifica. . . . . 0s «)) BRQ, 279

Rees oy etn aa ROR. ER i i arate eh on a

BBL! wig tah ie, Se SMBCICON 1 Se ease ee

agra a Hee ie er eR Hg ls A Cee er noes + > “is tJ

Bikes ahi o eRe LAGS EOS MOMPMCTNINE 5! A ah Fy ied! «ee

Puipete ret.) LAP, BOP Sy MEN a5 ee ai) CO Sk CE apenas

Sally’ aya: My BO ryngites subruficollis . . . . . 179, 287

ee Dep Sieet Die 1 fe. ajeg a | Me enn ali ikea beoriae -9
By enw tas AR Oe rie.

Beh ical 6 tas My MQ et RP MURR a A SSE Ug) a Pa a ee

BP etic a) Rae por cig gS OR babes a oss A se es
sis acuflavida . . . 145,195 | ROME Rae Sy

Fone ew eee TMG 104 Urinatoride . 9.) 15, Eo EST,

REE ae

Albatross, Wandering

Anhinga . . ;
Avocet, Ametican i

Baldpate
Beetle-head
Bittern, American
Cory’s Least
east...
Bluebill . se
Booby, Blue-faced
Common.
Red-footed .
Brant:
Broadbill
Buffle-head
Bull-peep .
Butter-ball .
Butter-bill .

Canvas-back
(Gao | dh aa eee
American
Black .
reo), aga
Skunk-head .
White-winged .
Cormorant, Florida .
Courlans . ‘
Crane, Sandhill :
Whooping
Crying-bird
Curlew, Eskimo .
Hudsonian.. . ¢
Jacks ss :
Long-billed ;

Darters .

Divers ;

Great Northern
Red-throated

Dough-bird

Dowitcher .

Dowitcher, Long-billed

American Golden Bye :

Baldpate .
BIACK ots

INDEX.

161,

302

(ENGLISH.)-
148, 201 Bluebill . :
I51, 207 Broadbill . . .
176, 271 Buffle-head .
Butter-ball t
157, 219 Butter-bill
182, 290 Canvas-back .
171,247 Dusky =:
172, 249 Florida Black .
172, 248 it USEY. :
160, 161 Gadwall . ges
150, 205 Mallatd i) 23 0 \erns
150, 205 Merganser, American
150, 206 Hooded rage
165, 240 Red-breasted
pceaies vi Old Squaw .
162)-298 Old Wife. .
2 a BOO Pintail .
Ro231 Redhead .
AL 2563 Ring-necked
' Ruddy eye
159, 227° - Scaup, American .
ice nOS Greater |
175, 269 Lesser ./. ‘
rae Sheldrake
ess Shoveller
162, 163 Spirit ._.
163, 234 South Southerly
151, 208 Sprigtail . -
Br 203 Summer .
172, 262 Whistler .
172, 260 Widgeon, Baldpate 3
a7 3 American .
182, 290 Wood. :
180, 289 | Dunlin, American Bede
cerry bore)
180, 288 | Egret, American .
Reddish . ‘
151, 207 White
142, 185
142,187 | Flamingo, American . .
142, 188 | Florida Black Duck
182, 290 pepe st a AS
177, 275 | Fulmars eer
177) 275
1§4, 212-1. Gadwall sas
162, 231 Gallinule, Florida
Sr 2A Purple
157,216 | Gannets. .

INDEX. : 403

Seegeen ss 287; 282 WV AiSOn Sco es ees eat 149) 203
peers renee. 4 100,).208 | rnalarope, Grays ek + 270
erican . . .~ 161, 162, 231 Northetas: (ee ee al te aie
n White-fronted . . 165, 238 eed oN wattage Pcs ei
Seer re «. 165, 97 Metal ee se oe Opa
164) 2390 peeeever, Golden. oc0r> 6s) + 98g, 208
164, 237 Belted Pining’s< os. ie a Se eee
178, 277 Black-bellied ici ie: i. s+ Ps ce eee
141, 185 Black-breasted: 003s . 182
141, 186 Reilldeer 6 icici ety sacar 183, 292
182, 282 Mountain. 00 +" 3 oe eS
144, 192 PaO oe. es = ed ee
144, 193 Ringneck 000 Ne ee ga
144, IQI Semipaioiated 0.2. 3 Sg es
144, 193 WPAN oe ios pop as ane eer 28
. . 196 WiOHS, esi ahs GRE A Se
144, 192
CaN eB RO i as aCe 174, 267
Be crowndd — 1 oe a, Sg Carolina. i one id, i
eae i ser Oy DEO Clapper . . ta”) Sears) eR a
MOM ee. ke, 2 69, 249 Florida C lapper ; <i ee
BR ass Sovak cs ion SRS ae King . . Seer Stn ie eG pe |
170, 171, 256 BE oe Oe ies a
ee es eT) Wea so ora ee a ae ee ee
170, 252 Vetlow tite curs na Te pe a ie
170, 260 | Redhead °°. SS oh 80 16a, 220
6 SRO 1 RBOCR eg ech) ge iis tan ea
171, 259
. . 167,245 | Sanderling . . 180, 280
167, 168, 244 | Sandpiper, Bartramian or ’ Bartram’ s. 178, 286
=a, SOPs 243 Buff-breasted . . . . . . . 179, 287
167, 246 Teta SEO ae eae
168, 246 Pectoral: o/s ee eee a eae
Purples 2). coke S22 5) ee ee Oper
143, 190 Red-backed’.* scjsee ee ee: ERO Aro
143, 189 Semipalmated. ... . . . . 180,279
Solitary | 50 see es Te
183, 292 Spotted. :(.) Seog Peo. 18a
178, 276 Stilt: os Leta =. | 1a
: Western 3.00. Seeta@eeo as. 5 a
- 173, 263 ” semipalmated. . . . . . 280
142, 187 Whiterumped. . .. . . . 180,278
ro... 442, 188. -epeoter, American ..°.jim, ... « BGgeeag
156, 157, 215 our . ...°. (eee. 162) Soap
A 153, 211 White-winged . . 1. ... .. 163, 234
154, 212 | Shearwater, Audubon’s . . . . . 149, 202
5) RS She Greater =. 2 5) ae ot ee
154; 15 SS. 1 -meldrakes. =... Shia 6) 6 «oe ee
rae . 208 + Ghoweller: 6 i.) ae ee ee

7 5 20-2 TRIM OS ae aoe tee 288
Skimmer, Black 1.2 eles) tea Oe Pe P47 200
161; 230° J oueke Bind 2. oa. se ea oe es 207

BR) Sie ea Re ew (eh ae RE OZ

184, 296 Red-preastede 265208 isin. WF eZS

Robi. -: i: ae Rt ee O

. 152, 209 Western Red-breasted tray tees Oe OES

+.’ 352, 210 NREBOM Sa ss era et A ter a
149, 202 | Sora. PPP ia yes ee

149, 203 acum Southerly RPE Cece ph aco mmm 8S

: se ;

Ve
‘g Spoonbill, Roseate
Stilt, Black-necked A Dari
"er ite Storks 5 4.4 Se eee Ligases
es in Swan, Whistling Se Fee
‘a Swimmers, Long-winged. . . . Tropic S00t) Velow-bited
£3 Pwr ces a me re Turkey, Water...
ha OBeMOSED 56, Oa Turnstone sett emer iarnics
Teal; Blue-winged 2.0.2 6. 84 Whistler... . .
PRISON oe eto cS RD WwW n, American.
: 2 Green-winged’ 2. ise
f PINE ST ie Sas IC eg ea
Bridled . . Diese ac Saeis aa eee
na % CODOrS 6c. Aad tbe Woodcock, American .
: Caspian. . . Pia inn
f OREM OI CS cit nce ne Yellowlegs, Greater.
CPOPIEE SS oo eo oS co: SRR es
, 5 DCU Ve? 2 a. oh A #4 . Winter <6 656a) eae
he

Works on Ornithology,

Charles B. Cory.

A Naturalist in the Magdalen Islands.

Giving description of'the islands and list of the birds taken there, with other ornithological
notes. One vol., small quarto, illustrated. Boston, U.S. A., 1878.

ta aaa ; . : : : : 5 ; $1.50.

The Birds of the Bahama Islands.

Containing many species new to the islands, together with a number of undescribed winter
plumages of North American birds. Illustrated with eight full-page plates. One vol, large
quarto. Ractean 11 c 4 : eae el a

by 27
enta
are :
Ibis,
hun-
enty

ewe eV IE . ; F ; : ; $95.00

The Birds of Haiti and San Domingo.

Containing twenty-two full-page plates colored by hand in water colors. Large quarto,

bound in cloth; the edition was limited to three hundred copies. Boston, U.S. A., 1885.
Price . : : f ; : ; c : $20.C0.

Swan, Whistling
Swimmers, Long-winged

Teal, Blue-winged
Ci

Spoonbill, ‘Roseate .
Stilt, Black-necked .

. . . . . os te
. . . . =e .

45 . . . . . .

Wi , American. .
Ye UM Westen oe) .o6 52 secs “a
Woodcock, American. . .
Yellowlegs, Greater...

ce > NMOL SC 6) ae
Winter. ra see

Hage 12, line 33, for «* Key West Billy,” read

Jim.”

ERRATA.

Page 17, line 11, for ‘‘ Filled with nebiies, read
with round black seeds.”

Works on Ornithology,

Charles B. Cory.

A Naturalist in the Magdalen Islands.

Giving description of'the islands and list of the birds taken there, with other ornithological
notes. One vol., small quarto, illustrated. Boston, U.S. A., 1878.

Price: . : ‘ , f ; ! i : $1.50.

The Birds of the Bahama Islands.

Containing many species new to the islands, together with a number of undescribed winter
plumages of North American birds. Illustrated with eight full-page plates. One vol., large
quarto. Boston, U.S. A., 1880.

Price === ; 2 ‘ 4 : j : : $7.00.
Revised edition of same. Boston, U. S. A., 1890.
Price; ; : ; , : : ‘ 4 $7.00.

The Beautiful and Curious Birds of the World.

A superb work, complete in seven parts (atlas folio), illustrated with twenty plates (21 by 27
ins.), beautifully colored, each plate finished by hand in water colors. The plates represent a
series of beautiful and curious birds, extinct and living. Among the species illustrated are :
Birds of Paradise, Dodo, Great Auk, Apteryx, Labrador Duck, California Condor, Sacred Ibis,
etc., etc. Each plate is accompanied by descriptive text. The edition was limited to two hun-
dred copies and the stones were destroyed after that number were printed. Less than twenty

perfect sets now remain unsold. Boston, U. S. A., 1883.
Price in parts : , ; : f $75.00
sae Bound in Levant . 5 ‘ , $95.00

The Birds of Haiti and San Domingo.

Containing twenty-two full-page plates colored by hand in water colors. Large quarto,
bound in cloth; the edition was limited to three hundred copies. Boston, U. S. A., 1885.

Price . : : ; ; ; ; ; s $20.co.

A List of the Birds of the West Indies.

New edition, revised and enlarged, one vol., boards. Boston, U.S. A., 1886.

PHGe : : ; : 3 : ; : $1.00.

The Birds of the West Indies.

Including all species known to occur in the Bahama Islands, the Greater and.Lesser Antilles,

excepting the islands of Tobago and Trinidad. The only exhaustive work on the birds of the
West Indies that has yet been published. Illustrated with map and numerous cuts. One vol.,
large quarto, bound in cloth. Boston, U.S. A., 1889.

PHCE: ; ; ; : : : ‘ } $5.00.

Catalogue of West Indian Birds.

Containing a list of all species known to occur in the Bahama Islands, the Greater Antilles,

the Caymans, and the Lesser Antilles, excepting the islands of Tobago and Trinidad, map.
One vol., large quarto, bound in cloth. Boston, U.S. A., 1892.
Price: "3 p : : : : y : $2.50.

Hunting and Fishing in Florida.

Including a key to the water birds of the State, illustrated with more than two hundred cuts
and two full-page photogravures. Quarto, bound in cloth. Boston, U.S. A., 1896.
PYIGE IK : : : A : f : x $3.75.

Key to the Water Birds of Florida.

Giving a description of all the water birds known to occur in the State. Illustrated with

numerous cuts representing nearly every species. Boston, U.S. A., 1896.
Price, paper, $1.50, cloth. i : k ; $1.75.

These works may be obtained from
Estes & Lauriat, Washington St., Boston, Mass.
Bradlee Whidden, 18 Arch St., Boston, Mass.
L. S. Foster, 35 Pine St., New York.
R. H. Porter, 18 Princes St., Cavendish Sq., London, England.

In Course of Preparation.

Check List of the Birds of Florida. The Birds of Eastern North America.
Key to the Birds of Illinois.

Cory, Charles Barney
Hunting and fishing in

Florida

tr
}
ae 3
ats i
ts zie
45 #
on

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